Charcuterie: an underestimated danger for us… and for our animals

Charcuterie is part of the daily life of many families: in children's sandwiches, at breakfast, as an aperitif and even sometimes given as a "treat" to pets. However, public health alerts are increasing and confirm the need to limit its consumption.

The World Health Organization (WHO) today classifies cold meats among category 1 carcinogens, that is to say substances whose link with cancer is scientifically proven.
This places cold meats in the same category as tobacco in terms of certainty of risk - even if the intensity of danger is not equivalent.

1. Why is cold meats classified as carcinogenic?

Deli meats (ham, salami, sausage, etc.) contain nitrites and nitrates, used to preserve color and prevent the development of bacteria.
Problem: in the stomach, these substances are transformed into nitrosamines, recognized as directly carcinogens.

The main risks observed:

• Increased risk of colorectal cancer
• Higher risks of stomach cancer
• Potential impact on cardiovascular systems
• Inflammatory effects linked to prolonged consumption

These effects are all the more worrying as the charcuterie is often eaten from a very young age.

2. A real risk for children

Children are among the biggest consumers of cold meats, particularly through:

• School sandwiches
• Quick snacks
• Pizzas and industrial products

As their digestive system and microbiota are still developing, they are more sensitive to nitrites and nitrosamines.
Health authorities strongly recommend to reduce their exposure.

3. Pets are also affected

It often happens that owners give ham, sausage or bacon to their dogs and cats, thinking of making them happy or out of simplicity. However, cold meats are totally unsuitable for their body: too salty, too fatty and too rich in additives.

According to TunisieVet veterinarians, this type of food can cause:

• recurrent digestive disorders,
• kidney problems,
• obesity,
• inflammation of the pancreas,
• and increase certain long-term risks of cancer.

To find out more or obtain the advice of a specialist, you can consult the veterinarians of TunisieVet

Dogs and cats should never consume charcuterie. Their health deserves a diet adapted to their real needs. 💙

4. How to reduce the risks?

It is not obligatory to completely ban cold meats, but it is essential to reduce its frequency.

Recommendations:

• Limit consumption to exceptional occasions
• Choose nitrite-free products when possible
• Replace cold meats with healthier alternatives :
  • Chicken or turkey cooked at home
  • Eggs
  • Fresh cheese
  • Legumes
• Make children aware of the risks
• Never give them to pets

Conclusion: protect the health of the whole family

Deli meats remain popular, but their impact on health is very real, confirmed by solid scientific data.
Limiting your consumption is a simple gesture that can reduce long-term risks, both for us and for our animals.

Health comes before ease of eating.
Eating better means protecting the whole family – humans and animals alike. 💙