ICSA Beef chair Edmund Graham has called on RTE and the producers of the TV programme Operation Transformation to issue an apology to the farmers of Ireland for wildly misleading claims that red meat causes cancer. “On last night’s show (10 Jan) dietitian Sophie Pratt came out with the statement that red meat ‘has been linked to cancer’ and went on to insinuate that any more than two portions a week were detrimental to health. This is deeply misleading, and we are disappointed that such over-the-top advice would be given out on Operation Transformation,” he said.

Mr Graham said he is sick and tired of people making exaggerated claims when the World Health Organisation IARC report primarily suggests a slight increased risk from processed meat but when it comes to unprocessed red meat it says that there is “limited evidence” that it is “probably” linked to increased risk. However, the evidence is poor and based on epidemiological studies where the risk of confounding variables is high.

“In other words, epidemiological studies are notoriously poor at capturing which of the lifestyle factors are actually responsible, if at all, for health outcomes. It is important to understand that, in the case of processed meat, which the WHO/IARC were adamant about, the lifetime risk increased from 5% to 6% (about 18% higher risk on a small number). This was on a completely different sphere to alcohol consumption for example where the risk was twenty times higher. This puts this into perspective. When it comes to these studies, we must remember that correlation is not the same as causation.”

“Many other factors such as lifestyle, genetics, and overall dietary patterns may also contribute to cancer risk.”

Mr Graham said the key to a healthy diet is moderation, variety, and balance. He said, “Including a diverse range of foods from different food groups such as fruits, vegetables, wholegrains, lean proteins, and dairy contributes to overall health. Being mindful of portion sizes and choosing cooking methods that minimise the addition of unhealthy fats also helps. It is also important to combine a healthy diet with regular physical activity for overall well-being.”

“Equally important is looking after your mental health. I have no doubt that every farmer in the country that tuned into Operation Transformation last night felt sucker punched at being falsely accused of producing food that is detrimental to a healthy lifestyle. Red meat, particularly in its unprocessed state, provides many essential nutrients, such as protein which is vital for fitness, muscle mass and growth in kids. It is also one of the few foods which provides zinc, vitamin B12 and iron in readily absorbable form.”

“It is extremely disappointing that a show which is supposed to be about health and fitness, denigrates a very nutritious food in a country where ultra processed foods and sugary snacks are ubiquitous. All that needs to be done is to look at what the shelves are full of in filling stations. RTE should reflect on whether this kind of unwarranted scaremongering is appropriate in a show supposed to give good advice and improve overall well-being.”

ENDS