DOH: Banning processed meats not necessary

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday said that there is no need to control or ban processed foods despite a recent report from the World Health Organization declaring processed meats may cause cancer.

Assistant Health Secretary Gerardo Bayugo said eating processed meats such as hotdogs, sausages, bacon and ham is fine as long as it is taken in moderation and partnered with healthy diet.

"What we are advising is to ensure that there is balanced diet," Bayugo said.

Bayugo added that these types of meats are difficult to regulate and remove from one’s menu as they are easy to prepare.

DOH recommended the Food and Nutrition and Research Institute (FNRI) practice of “Pinggang Pinoy” (healthy food plate) as a strategy to promote healthy diet.

With Pinggang Pinoy, the plate will be composed of four quadrants including portions of carbohydrates, meat, fruits and vegetables.

“Still, basically, that plate should contain meat. Whether it's white meat or red meat. It must contain protein. It must contain carbohydrate. It must contain fruits and vegetables for mineral and vitamins. It should be balanced. Without meat, which is a source of protein, diet will also be unhealthy,” Bayuga said.

Bayuga clarified that meat is still an essential food nutrient as it is a good source of protein that rebuilds body muscles and tissues.

“Our body muscles can wear and tear. It needs to be replaced from time to time (especially if someone is wounded). You need to repair that. Protein is the one that we used for that,” Bayuga explained.

On Monday, WHO reported that meats are carcinogenic and heightens the risk of colon, stomach and other cancers. The agency added that red meat also contributes to cancer.

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