SCOTTISH red meat industry organisation have collectively voiced their concern about 'unbalanced and misleading' media coverage of processed meat.

Quality Meat Scotland, the Scottish Association of Meat Wholesalers and the Scottish Federation of Meat Traders Associations urged the press to avoid alarmist reporting on meat and health, following several articles in the Scottish media relating to processed meat, with a particular focus on school meals.

Dietitian Dr Carrie Ruxton of the Meat Advisory Panel said: “It is widely acknowledged that children should have a balanced diet. It is also widely recognised that salty or higher fat options, including some processed meats, should be eaten in moderation with preference given to lean red meats which provide a range of vitamins, minerals and high-quality protein.”

However, Dr Ruxton pointed out the health evidence relating to nitrates and nitrites in processed meat is not strong enough to completely ban foods containing these from school meals: “Preservatives are already strictly controlled by EU regulations and perform an important safety function, helping to protect people from food poisoning bacteria. Therefore, a balance needs to be struck,” she added.

QMS chief executive Alan Clarke added: “QMS works hard to support the Scottish Government’s aims to raise the profile of a healthy diet and it is disappointing to see this kind of coverage suggesting a much higher risk than actually exists. This sort of reporting also distracts attention from some of the main threats to human health which could make a huge difference, including low levels of physical exercise and lack of intake of fruit and vegetables.”