Cookstown Formed ham

The barcode 5009759015131 is associated with "Cookstown Formed Ham"—a pre-cooked, cured ham product typically sold in the United Kingdom. Below are the details available based on available data:

Product Identification

• Brand/Manufacturer: Cookstown Foods (a UK-based producer of cured meats, sausages, and deli products).
• Product Type: Pre-cooked, formed ham (likely a sliced or molded ham product, possibly containing pork or a blend of meats with additives like salt, sugar, and preservatives).
• Packaging: Commonly sold in vacuum-sealed or modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) to extend shelf life.
• Typical Use: Often used in sandwiches, salads, or as a ready-to-eat deli meat.

Nutritional & Ingredient Concerns

While exact ingredients cannot be confirmed without the product label, formed hams typically contain:

• Meat: Pork (or a mix with other meats like beef or chicken in some formulations).
• Additives: Salt, sugar, phosphates (for moisture retention), nitrates/nitrites (for color and preservation), and preservatives like sodium erythorbate.
• Potential Allergens: May contain gluten (from breading), sulfites, or soy (in some formulations).
• Health Considerations:
  • High in sodium: Consuming large amounts may contribute to hypertension or cardiovascular risks.
  • Processed meat classification: The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies processed meats (including cured hams) as Group 1 carcinogens (linked to increased colorectal cancer risk with high consumption). Moderation is advised.
  • Preservatives: Nitrates/nitrites can form nitrosamines (potential carcinogens) when heated at high temperatures.
  • Sugar content: Some versions may contain added sugars for flavor.