A study linking processed meat to worsening asthma symptoms has sparked fresh health concerns over bacon, but experts insist Brits shouldn’t be worried.
The asthma study, published in BMJ Journal Thorax, concluded that high dietary intake of cured meats was associated with a worsening of asthma symptoms, with four or more weekly servings having “the greatest impact”.
The researchers drew on data from 971 participants in the French Epidemiological study on the Genetics and Environment of Asthma (EGEA), and found those who ate the most cured meats were 76% more likely to experience worsening asthma symptoms than those who ate the least.
The nitrates in cured meat might play a role in airway inflammation, the scientists said, although they noted the study was observational, and they could not draw any firm conclusions on whether diet was to blame.
Asthma UK stressed the research didn’t provide proof that eating processed meat would worsen symptoms for sufferers.
“This is an interesting study suggesting a potential link between the consumption of cured meats and the aggravation of asthma symptoms in some people. However, it does not show a definite cause-and-effect from eating processed meats,” said Dr Erika Kennington, head of research at Asthma UK.
Confusing messages
It comes just days after a review of clinical trials by a university in the US challenged the assumption that red meat consumption heightens the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Scientists at Purdue University analysed 24 past clinical trials - considered a source of more robust scientific evidence than observational studies - and concluded there was no evidence to suggest red meat consumption affects short-term cardiovascular disease risk factors such as blood pressure and blood cholesterol.
“The conflicting stories in the pages of today’s national media demonstrate just how confusing messaging is for consumers on red and processed meat,” said Nick Allen, market development director for the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB).
The Purdue University study was based on scientific evidence from clinical trials, Allen pointed out, while the asthma study was purely observational and merely suggests an “association”.
“It is unfortunate that, so often, headlines continue to reflect vague observational associations rather than sound science from clinical trials to aid consumer choices,” he added. “Red meat continues to be an important element of a balanced diet. It is rich in many nutrients and consumption levels in the UK are, on average, below recommended guidelines.
The Grocer reported last week that bacon sales have plummeted by £122.6m (11.3%) in the 12 months since the WHO published its report linking processed meat to cancer last October.
However, while industry experts admitted health concerns contributed to the downturn, they stressed changes in supermarket pricing and promotion also had a bigger impact on sales.
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