Canned corn beef is an interesting product nutritionally, because it has some advantages and some disadvantages when incorporated into a diet. The main advantage of canned corn beef is that it is an excellent source of energy and protein, and the shelf life is almost indefinite. This makes it a superb choice for an emergency food, and a small stock of canned corn beef can supply a person with enough energy and protein for a considerable length of time. The main disadvantage of canned corn beef is the fact that it is processed and contains high amounts of preservatives including sodium nitrite. In the short term, as an emergency food, this should not be a problem, but eaten over the long term, this could increase the risk of gastrointestinal cancer. One way to attenuate the negative effects is to consume canned corn beef with vitamin C or plant foods containing the vitamin. The vitamin C is able to prevent the sodium nitrite being converted into carcinogenic nitrosamines, and thereby protects the gastrointestinal tract from damage.
Eat Well, Stay Healthy, Protect Yourself
RdB
