Image by Instagram

Last week the World Health Organization released a that linked consumption of red and processed meats to colon cancer. In the category of processed meats, the W.H.O. panel includes bacon, sausages, hot dogs — basically any meat that has been cooked through processes like curing and smoking for preservation or to enhance flavor.

And yes, the salted and cured meats that we love from our favorite Jewish delis make the list, too.

The report seemed to lack sufficient evidence to establish a concrete, causal relationship between processed meats and colorectal cancer. Nonetheless, it had people talking. Vegetarians, for example, seized the opportunity to have their “I told you so” moments on social media.

Forwarding the News

Thoughtful, balanced reporting from the Forward and around the web, bringing you updated news and analysis each day.

Terms(Required)

I agree to the Forward's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Email(Required)

Mile End owner Noah Bernamoff.

I caught up with Noah Bernamoff, the owner of Mile End Deli and Black Seed Bagels, who says he’s not at all worried that the W.H.O. report will negatively affect his business: “We take great care in sourcing 100% antibiotic and hormone-free animal proteins,” he said, “and we manufacture all of our deli meats in-house so we and our customers know precisely how our product is made.’

“Our deli sandwiches are also moderately sized so I think we make it easier for customers to eat delicious, traditional deli food with moderation.”

Bernamoff added that health concerns have already affected the Jewish-deli business in general, so “this additional bit of information likely will not further affect the current course of decline.”

So rest assured, pastrami lovers: Your favorite deli sandwiches won’t be scratched from the menu anytime soon.

Jean Hanks is the food intern at the Forward. Contact her at [email protected].

A message from our CEO & publisher Rachel Fishman Feddersen

I hope you appreciated this article. Before you go, I’d like to ask you to please support the Forward’s award-winning, nonprofit journalism during this critical time.

The coming year promises to be filled with more complex and historic developments. We are entering an era where independent, fact-based Jewish journalism will be more important than ever. We need to be ready for whatever 2025 will bring, and with your help, we can be.

We’ve set a goal to raise $260,000 by December 31. That’s an ambitious goal, but one that will give us the resources we need to invest in the high quality news, opinion, analysis and cultural coverage that isn’t available anywhere else.

If you feel inspired to make an impact, now is the time to give something back. Join us as a member at your most generous level.

—  Rachel Fishman Feddersen, Publisher and CEO

With your support, we’ll be ready for whatever 2025 brings.

$36 $500

$120 $180 Other amount