Deli turkey, even “oven roasted” and “no nitrate” varieties, are still considered processed meats and should be limited or avoided for optimal health.
What is processed meat?
Processed meat refers to any meat that has been altered through methods like salting, curing, smoking, or fermentation to enhance flavor or extend shelf life. This includes:
- Common processed meats: Hot dogs, sausages, ham, bacon, jerky
- Deli meats: Sliced turkey, ham, roast beef, bologna
- Cured meats: Salami, pepperoni, pastrami
Why is deli turkey considered processed?
Even though deli turkey may seem like a healthier option compared to other processed meats, it still falls under the same category due to the following reasons:
- Salting: Most deli turkey contains salt, sodium chloride, sodium phosphate, or potassium chloride, which are used for preservation and therefore fall under the definition of processing.
- Nitrates/Nitrites: While “no nitrate” labels are common, these meats often use natural sources like celery powder or juice instead of synthetic sodium nitrite. These natural sources still convert to nitrates and nitrites in the body, posing similar health risks.
- Cooking and Slicing: Deboning, cooking, and slicing are also considered processing steps.
Why limit or avoid processed meat?
Studies have shown a strong link between processed meat consumption and an increased risk of colorectal cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) has even classified processed meat as a carcinogen.
While research is ongoing, some potential reasons for this link include:
- Nitrates/Nitrites: These can convert to nitrosamines in the body, which are potentially cancer-causing.
- Other additives: Processed meats often contain other additives like preservatives, flavorings, and coloring agents, which may also contribute to health risks.
- High sodium content: Processed meats are typically high in sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health problems.
Alternatives to processed meat
Instead of relying on processed meats, consider these healthier options:
- Fresh, unprocessed meats: Opt for fresh chicken, turkey, fish, or lean cuts of red meat.
- Plant-based protein sources: Beans, lentils, tofu, tempeh, and nuts are excellent sources of protein and fiber.
- Vegetarian alternatives: Explore vegetarian sausages, burgers, or deli slices made from plant-based ingredients.
While deli turkey may seem like a healthier choice compared to other processed meats, it’s still important to limit or avoid it due to its processing methods and potential health risks. By opting for fresh, unprocessed meats or plant-based alternatives, you can enjoy a healthier diet and reduce your risk of chronic diseases.
According to Ruzensky, “fresh meat will not last for weeks and weeks in your refrigerator like some of these processed meats can.” “As you examine the packets, keep an eye out for expiration dates longer than a few days.” ”.
“While I’m not advocating for never again eating a hot dog, it’s crucial to understand that frequent consumption of processed meat raises your risk of developing cancer,” says Ruzensky It’s critical to prioritize eating whole, fresh foods whenever possible. ”.
“It’s like glucose that comes from honey instead of sugar. When digested, your body recognizes both as glucose, according to Ruzensky. “With nitrates, whether it’s natural or not, it’s still nitrates. ”.
But your dietitian will suggest you limit processed meat. In fact, avoiding processed meat is best for cancer prevention.
Naturally occurring substances in soil, water, and vegetables are nitrates and nitrites. They are present in our blood and saliva and help with digestion.
Deli-Style Roast Turkey for Sandwiches – Food Wishes
FAQ
Is roasted turkey considered processed meat?
What is a turkey roast made of?
What is pressed turkey?
Is oven roasted turkey deli meat healthy?
Is fresh ground turkey considered processed meat?
Thank you for your question: Fresh ground turkey is not considered processed meat because it is not smoked, cured, or salted, and as fresh, would not contain preservatives. Is turkey chops considered a process meat?
Is roasted whole Turkey better than processed turkey?
Processed turkey is everywhere, in a zillion forms, some better than others. But roasted whole turkey is harder to find if you didn’t cook it yourself. So we’ve found some for you. The accompanying article lists some eateries where you can order a turkey sandwich and get the real thing.
Where can I buy fresh roasted turkey breast?
Fresh-roasted turkey breast Buy a turkey breast and roast it at home as a cost-effective option to processed meats. You can also look for fresh-roasted turkey at the deli. It should look similar to the turkey breast you’d have on Thanksgiving and will usually be labeled “cooked in-house.”
Are cooked turkeys moist?
Without careful preparation, cooked turkey is usually considered to end up less moist than other poultry meats such as chicken or duck. [citation needed] Wild turkeys, while technically the same species as domesticated turkeys, have a very different taste from farm-raised turkeys.