Processed meats are meats that have been altered through methods such as curing, smoking, or adding preservatives to enhance flavor and extend shelf life. Common examples include bacon, hot dogs, sausage, and deli meats. These products often contain added ingredients like salt, nitrates, and other preservatives. The processing of meats can affect their nutritional value. While they can be convenient and tasty, many processed meats are high in sodium and saturated fats. Health organizations often recommend limiting the consumption of processed meats due to potential links to health issues, including heart disease and certain types of cancer.