No Amount of Processed Meat Is Safe, Study Warns of Rising Health Risks

New research warns that no amount of processed meat is safe to eat. The study, conducted by the University of Washington’s Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), links even small portions to higher health risks. It found that eating just one hot dog a day could raise the risk of type 2 diabetes by 11% and colorectal cancer by 7%.

Processed and Ultra-Processed Foods Increase Health Risks

The researchers analyzed over 70 studies involving millions of people. They identified processed meats like bacon, sausages, ham, salami, jerky, and other cured or smoked items as key contributors to chronic illnesses. In addition, ultra-processed foods such as sugary drinks and trans fats also showed harmful effects. For example, consuming one extra sugary beverage daily increased diabetes risk by 8% and heart disease by 2%. Even small amounts of trans fats raised heart disease risk by 3%.
These findings highlight how modern diets filled with processed products can quietly harm health. Although the study used self-reported data, scientists applied strict methods, suggesting the real risks may be even higher. Therefore, the message is clear—there is no completely safe level of processed or ultra-processed food consumption.

Reducing Processed Foods for a Healthier Future

Processed foods may offer convenience and longer shelf life, but their long-term health effects are alarming. People often rely on them due to busy lifestyles or limited access to fresh ingredients. However, experts recommend reducing intake instead of searching for a “safe” amount.
Choosing whole, minimally processed foods supports better health, energy, and longevity. Small changes—like swapping processed snacks for fruits, nuts, or fresh meals—can make a big difference over time. As awareness grows, embracing balanced eating habits could help lower global rates of diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.