Ham

Ham is a cut of pork, typically from the leg, that has been preserved through curing, with or without smoking. Curing involves salt, nitrites, and sometimes sugar, which helps to preserve the meat and develop its characteristic flavor and color.

Manufacturers use ham primarily for its distinct flavor and protein content. It is a popular ingredient in a wide range of prepared foods, including sandwiches, pizzas, salads, and various deli meat products.

Ham is a food product, not a food additive, and is generally recognized as safe for consumption. As a processed meat, ham can be high in sodium; the FDA Daily Value for sodium is 2,300 mg. It may also contain saturated fat, and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (2025-2030) recommend limiting saturated fat to less than 10% of daily calories. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies processed meat, which includes ham, as carcinogenic to humans (Group 1).