Formed Ham

Formed ham is a product made from pieces of pork meat that are reformed together. The meat is typically cured, often with salt and nitrites, then shaped and cooked.

Manufacturers use formed ham to provide a consistent texture and flavour in processed foods. It is commonly found in pizzas, ready meals, and sandwiches where a uniform appearance and bite are desired.

Formed ham is a food ingredient, not a food additive, and therefore does not have an E-number or require authorisation on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. As a processed meat product, it is a source of protein and nutrients but can also be high in salt. The World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified processed meat as a Group 1 carcinogen, meaning there is sufficient evidence that it causes cancer in humans. This classification is based on epidemiological studies linking consumption of processed meat to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. However, the absolute risk for individuals remains low, and dietary advice from the NHS and SACN recommends moderation in the consumption of processed meats as part of a balanced diet.