[Mrluvaluva]

Children should not be given ham sandwiches because they could pose a danger to their health, a charity has warned.

The World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) claimed there is "convincing evidence" that eating processed meat increases the risk of bowel cancer.

Youngsters need to avoid foods like ham and salami, and they should not be included in packed lunches, it said.

The WCRF said sandwich-fillers like chicken, fish or cheese were preferable.

There is no specific research on eating the meats in childhood but the evidence in adults was too strong to ignore, the charity went on.

Scientists estimate about 3,700 bowel cancer cases could be prevented each year in the UK if everyone ate less than 70g of processed meat a week.

This is roughly the equivalent of three rashers of bacon.

But the Food Standards Agency (FSA) said processed meats, like ham and salami, can form part of a balanced diet - and parents should not be concerned about occasionally including them in their children's lunchboxes.

The WCRF is also urging parents to avoid lunchbox fillers that are high in fat and calories, such as sugary drinks.

A recent survey showed two thirds of people in Britain were unaware that eating processed meat increases the risk of cancer.

Marni Craze, children's education manager for the WCRF, said: "It is better if children learn to view processed meat as an occasional treat if it is eaten at all."

The FSA also said: "Processed meats can contain high levels of fat, particularly saturated fat, and salt, so we wouldn't recommend eating them too often.

"Parents should try to include a variety of sandwich fillings, including chicken and fish."


Source


I wonder what's next on the list............