Red meat can be lethal, say experts

Published on 13/03/2012 01:17

RED meat is not only unhealthy but can be lethal, according to new research.

Regularly eating red meat – especially the processed variety – dramatically increases the risk of death from heart disease and cancer, a major study has shown.

Each additional serving of processed red meat, equivalent to one hot-dog or two rashers of bacon, raised the chances of dying by a fifth.

Conversely, replacing red meat with fish, poultry, or plant-based protein foods contributed to a longer life.

Data from 121,342 people taking part in two large US health and lifestyle investigations were analysed to produce the findings.