The World Health Organization says hot dogs, bacon, and other processed meats can lead to colon, stomach, and other cancers.

But the Canadian Cattlemen's Association says the risk is very small.

Mark Klassen, Director of Technical Services, says under some circumstances processed meat can be a cancer hazard, but regardless it's important to eat varied diet according to Canada's food guide.

"With processed meats obviously you are adding more ingredients beyond just the meat itself and I think the average statistics is the average Canadian eats about 25 grams per day and the World Health Organization starting citing increased risk at about 50 grams and given that we're about half of that and I know I certainly know I enjoy some bacon for breakfast I think that as long as you don't go over board we can continue to enjoy processed meats as well."

While there isn't as much evidence to link red meat to cancer, the WHO says some studies suggest the risk of colorectal cancer could increase by 17 per cent for every 100 gram portion of red meat eaten daily.

"the increase is very small and I think thats the key message here, under some circumstances processed meat can be a cancer hazard but the chance is very small especially for the average Canadian."

Klassen also says there are benefits to eating meat, as it's a good source of iron.