Deli meat or cold cuts are typically precooked or cured meats that can be served hot or cold. They are served on a tray as an informal snack (did someone say Charcuterie?) or added to the good old-fashioned Sandwich. The word Deli itself has come from the French word delicatesse meaning “delicious things to eat” and is also a plural form of the German word delikatesse meaning “delicious eats”.
Where do Deli Meat come from and the 3 reliable ways they are made?
Processed meats are those that have been treated with a curing or smoking process. These meats are often seen as healthier because they contain less fat and calories. Unprocessed meats are those that have not been treated in any way. They can be fresh or frozen, and can be high in fat and calories. Processed vegetarian meats are those that have been processed to resemble meat, but do not contain any animal products. These products can be seen as a healthier option for vegetarians because they contain fewer calories and fat than traditional meat products. ..
What are the common additives found in Deli Meat?
Experts suggest that the food we eat should be eaten as close to its natural form as possible, even after cooking. However, this might not be the case with most Deli meats that undergo rigorous processing and contain additives. Some of them are: Deli meats undergo rigorous processing and contain additives, which makes it difficult to eat them in their most natural form. ..
The most prominent additive in deli meats is nitrates and nitrites. These can convert to harmful carcinogenic compounds in the human body. Another common additive is a high quantity of sodium. The American Heart Association recommends eating no more than 2,300 mg of sodium per day. With Deli meats the sodium piles on per slice without us even realizing it. Other common additives include BHA, BHT, Citric Acid, Corn Syrup, Gelatin, Starch, MSG, Phosphates, Carrageenan, Sugar, Stabilizers and Added Solutions. These can include things like BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole), BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene), citric acid, corn syrup, gelatin, starch, MSG (monosodium glutamate), phosphates, carrageenan and sugar. ..
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that Deli meat be reheated to 165 degrees Fahrenheit to destroy any harmful Listeria bacteria before consumption. This is in addition to the three-day rule that applies to all food. ..
How to Choose Healthy Deli Meat alternatives?
Deli meats are a good source of protein, iron, and healthy vitamins, but an unmoderated daily intake of deli meats can increase your risk of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Limiting your intake to a couple of times a week and choosing healthier varieties of deli meat can overcome this. ..
We recommend buying Certified, Organic Deli meat which does not use chemicals or harmful ingredients. These might cost you slightly more but it is a sure way to avoid harm to your health. Choose Certified, Organic Deli meats – Plant-based meat alternatives have gained popularity over the years and consumers want to choose this healthy source of protein over others (Hello Tofurkey!). These are usually made of soy, wheat or chickpea and are free of nitrates and other preservatives. Gluten-free variations are also available now.
Deli meat – A classic American preference
Deli Meat is here to stay! The sales of Deli Meat only increased during the pandemic as many people were making their own food at home, and sandwiches were the easiest meal to make. If you are someone who loves sandwiches, try to switch it up now and then with healthier alternatives. Choose fresh, lean, organic and low sodium options and discard past the 3 days consumption date. We recommend everything in moderation and consider your complete diet first.
