The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes HCAs as known carcinogens. However, public awareness regarding the risks associated with well-cooked meats—particularly those that are pan-fried, grilled, barbecued, or charred—is only beginning to gain traction. While there has been media coverage concerning the carcinogenic effects of cooked and processed meat, the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee made its first recommendation in 2015 to reduce the intake of red and processed meat, which contributed to raising awareness about this issue—even though the final guidelines did not provide a clear directive.
Previous research has indicated that incorporating antioxidant-rich herbs into meat dishes may help limit the formation of HCAs, yet this information has yet to be effectively communicated as a public health message. There is ongoing dialogue regarding how various preparation and cooking methods can mitigate the carcinogenic effects of meat, but this information has not yet been widely embraced by the general public. The National Cancer Institute emphasizes that HCAs can form in all types of meat, including poultry, beef, pork, and fish, when cooked at high temperatures—a point that is not addressed in the USDA’s guidelines and is infrequently reported.
This presents a unique opportunity for the meat industry, which has traditionally resisted recommendations encouraging Americans to alter their meat consumption. Companies like McCormick could play a pivotal role in raising awareness and developing specific products aimed at consumers who prefer their meat well-done or blackened, while also seeking to minimize their cancer risk.
In this context, it’s also worth noting that some individuals may question what should you not take with calcium citrate, especially when considering dietary supplements that may interact with their nutrition approach. Addressing these concerns could further enhance consumer awareness and empower them to make informed choices about their dietary habits while enjoying their favorite meats.