Processed meat is any meat that has been modified to improve its taste or extend its shelf life. Meat processing methods include salting, curing, fermentation, smoking, boiling, frying, and/or the addition of chemical preservatives. Processed meat is usually composed of pork or beef, but it can also contain poultry, offal, or meat by-products such as blood. Examples of processed meat products include bacon, ham, sausages, salami, corned beef, jerky, hot dogs, lunch meat, canned meat, chicken nuggets, and meat-based sauces.

It is important to note that there is no clear definition of processed meat, but if it has been smoked, salted, cured, or has had preservatives added to it, it is likely processed. Meat that has been frozen or undergone mechanical processing like cutting and slicing is still considered unprocessed.

Processed meat consumption has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, gastric cancer, stroke, and other health complications. Processed meat products contain large amounts of salt, which may contribute to some health problems. Additionally, processed meat contains various chemical compounds that are not present in fresh meat, many of which are harmful to health. Therefore, it is recommended to limit the consumption of processed meat to reduce the risk of health complications.