Oncologist warns of cancer risks linked to food additives

Oncologist Dr. Ted A. James advises consumers to look beyond marketing claims on the front of food packaging and instead scrutinize the ingredient list on the back, specifically for sodium nitrate and sodium nitrite.

These additives are commonly used as preservatives in processed meats, such as sausages, bacon, deli meats, and pepperoni, to extend shelf life and maintain color and flavor. They may appear on labels as specific names or via E-numbers, including E249, E250, E251, and E252.

The primary health concern is that nitrites can react with other substances during food preparation or digestion to form nitrosamines. Some nitrosamines are known to damage cells and DNA, which may increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer.