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In late 2007, the verdict came in. The American Institute for Cancer Research and the World Cancer Research Fund released the most comprehensive review ever compiled on nutrition and cancer risk. Many foods are linked to cancer, the report confirmed. But it reserved some of its strongest language for the link between processed meats, like hot dogs and bacon, and colorectal cancer. The evidence was deemed “convincing,” and no amount was considered safe: Processed meats should be avoided completely.

The term “processed meats” means those that are typically prepared or preserved by smoking, curing, or salting or by the addition of preservatives. This includes ham, bacon, pastrami, and salami, as well as hot dogs and sausages to which nitrites or nitrates have been added. Hamburgers and minced meats may be included as well, depending on processing. [Downlaod]