Sliced Processed Meats

• 488 products were listed for this study
• Since 2017, the supply of sliced processed meats has seen a 22% increase in saturated fats
• As in 2017, almost all processed sliced meats have high sodium levels

This monitoring shows that the average supply of sliced processed meats has deteriorated since 2017. Indeed, the 2022 meat supply contains more energy and lipids, but it is above all the 22% increase in saturated fat which is the most significant change. These increases seem attributable to the arrival on the market of new meats higher in these nutrients. However, when sales are considered, these results are no longer significant. This indicates that the consumers have not necessarily purchased these new products richer in energy and lipids. In addition to saturated fats, sodium remains a nutrient of interest. Although no significant variation has been noted since 2017, 94% of meats listed (representing 98% of sales) are above the 15% DV threshold for sodium. Therefore, if no improvement is provided by the end of the implementation period (January 1, 2026), 96% (100% of sales) of meats analyzed in this report must display the nutritional symbol revealing a high content in sodium and 46% (42% of sales) for high saturated fat content.

To cite this report:

Pomerleau S., Guillemette D., Corriveau A., Gagnon P. et Provencher V. (2023). Suivi du portrait des viandes transformées tranchées disponibles au Québec 2017-2022. Observatoire de la qualité de l’offre alimentaire. 63 pages. [En ligne] observatoire.inaf.ulaval.ca