Processed meat is classified as a “definite” cause of cancer, meaning it is labelled a Group 1 carcinogen.
This is the same group smoking and alcohol are classified under.
Red meat, on the other hand, is a Group 2 carcinogen, a group it shares with “shift work”.
Which dietary factors protect against the disease?
As a rule of thumb, any cancer-fighting should comprise a wide range of vegetables, fruits and whole grains.