28/10/2015

Dept Of Health Advice On Processed Meat

Meat is an important part of a balanced diet, the Department of Health has said in new advice.

The department has issued new advice following the publication of a report by the World Health Organisation (WHO), which reclassified processed meat as carcinogenic to humans.

The department said: "The current Irish Healthy eating guidelines and Food Pyramid provide practical help on the correct amount of nutrients – protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals to maintain good health.

"Foods that contain the same types of nutrients are grouped together on each of the shelves of the Food Pyramid. Red Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, beans and nuts are included on the Protein shelf of the pyramid.

The advice is:

• Individuals can choose two servings a day from this shelf. Go for a variety of choices. Choose lean meat, trim excess fat and remove skin from poultry. It is better to choose fish twice a week. 

• Limit processed meats such as bacon or ham. 

• You do not need large amounts of meat (50 – 75 grams of cooked lean beef is one serving).

"The Department of Health is already reviewing the Healthy Eating Guidelines and the WHO findings have been sent to the expert group for their consideration. The new revised Healthy Eating Guidelines will be issued by the end of 2015. This new evidence has been sent to the expert group for their consideration. The new Healthy Eating Guidelines will be issued by the end of 2015."

(MH/LM)

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