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News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – PREVIOUS EMBARGO IS LIFTED
11 February 2010
Sound Science Must Underpin Advice on Cancer
The British Meat Processors Association (BMPA) is alarmed to learn that a
frequently cited 2007 World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) report that links
red and processed meat consumption with risk of colorectal cancer (CRC)
contains some serious scientific flaws.
The flaws, which may have the effect of exaggerating any link between red
and processed meat and CRC, have been highlighted by experts at the
University of Sydney and in a review in the American Journal of Clinical
Nutrition, and have been drawn to the BMPA’s attention by EBLEX.
Stephen Rossides, Director of the BMPA, said “What worries me most is that
while WCRF has privately acknowledged that its report contains a number of
errors and omissions, it does not appear to be completely open about them.”
“I am most concerned that the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition
(SACN), one of the Food Standards Agency’s expert panels, should be made
fully aware of the flaws in the WCRF report before it finalises its forthcoming
dietary recommendations on iron and health.”
Mr Rossides continued “We are all agreed that sound science must underpin
Government advice on public health issues. There is a risk that this principle
may be compromised in this instance.”
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For further information please contact the British Meat Processors Association
Tel: 020 7329 0776 Fax: 020 7329 0653 Email: [email protected]