Anti-bacon message may backfire

The chief scientist at the Food Standards Agency, the British Governments food watchdog, has said that the message aimed at dissuading the consumption of bacon sandwiches may cause people to turn their back on future researches.

London, November 5 : The chief scientist at the Food Standards Agency, the British Government's food watchdog, has said that the message aimed at dissuading the consumption of bacon sandwiches may cause people to turn their back on future researches.

Dr Andrew Wadge's suggestion stands in stark contrast to a report by the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) that said that there existed strong evidence for it to recommend people quitting processed meats, triggering a furore last week.

The scientist said that the report's stark and "surprising" message not to eat bacon sandwiches could alienate consumers.

He admitted to liking bacon sandwiches himself, and insisted that it should remain part of a balanced diet.

"I do like a bacon sandwich, in moderation," the Telegraph quoted him as saying.

Dr Wadge said that he would investigate the "relative risks" associated with bacon.

He, however, said: "The real danger is we can lose the interest and the trust of the consumer. I suspect that most people will simply ignore these messages, which is a shame because there are relatively easy steps we can take to improve our diet and reduce risks of disease."

ANI