In this brief guide, we will answer the query, “Can you eat spam raw?” We will also discuss the different positive and negative aspects of eating spam.
Can you eat spam raw?
Yes, you can eat raw span directly from the can. Spam is already cooked prior to the packaging so even if you do not cook it, it can be easily consumed in its raw form (which is actually already cooked). Therefore, you can choose to eat spam raw or cooked.
Spams are a very easy and convenient food option, especially if you’re in a hurry or have limited ingredients. You can consume them straight from the can or cook them. They need very minimal time for preparation even if you choose to cook them so they aren’t very time-consuming.
Spam is safe to eat because it is pasteurized during the canning process. As a result, you can eat it straight from the can, but the smell of a freshly opened tin can be overpowering. Although they’re completely fine to eat raw, you will get better flavors if you heat them in a pan before eating.
What are the positive aspects of eating spam?
The most positive aspect of eating spam is that it is very easy and convenient food with a long shelf life unlike other meat types. Also, the fact that they can also be consumed in their market form without cooking is another plus point. This saves you a lot of time and effort whe you don’t feel like cooking anything grand.
You can also combine spam with sandwiches, pastas, and rice for an easy breakfast, lunch or dinner. Even if you are cooking spam, it requires the least effort and preparation time. Since spam is a processed meat with added preservatives and other additives, it is easier to store them for a long time as compared to other fresh meats or fish.
What are the negative aspects of eating spam?
Since spam is processed meat, it is not as healthy as fresh meat so consumption of spam comes with different negative effects on your health. Many of its nutrient contents are lost in the manufacture and processing of spam. While their shelf life increases, the quality of meat decreases. Lets us discuss some of the negative aspects of eating spam:
It may cause health problems
Consumption of processed meat is associated with different health problems like diabetes and coronary heart diseases. Furthermore, highly processed meat has been associated with a higher risk of several other health issues like colorectal and stomach cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and high blood pressure.
Presence of Sodium Nitrite
Sodium nitrite is a commonly used food additive in the manufacturing process of spam. It inhibits bacterial growth while also improving the flavor and appearance of the spam. Nitrosamine, which is a dangerous compound, has been linked to a number of health effects after amino acids and nitrites were exposed to high heat.
By eating spam, you are directly consuming sodium nitrite and nitrosamine which increases the risk of stomach cancer, thyroid cancer, brain tumor formation and type 1 diabetes.
Spam contains high sodium content
Spam contains a high amount of sodium, which accounts for nearly one-third of the daily value per serving. Although different people have different reactions to the effects of salt, one thing that is common is high consumption of salt does no good to anybody.
Specially those with high blood pressure have to be very careful about their sodium intake. Some people may be more sensitive to salt, which may reduce blood flow, resulting in bloating and swelling if they consume lot of spams. Increased sodium consumption has also been linked to stomach cancer. You can follow the guideline for low sodium diet here.
Spam has a high fat content
Spam also has a high fat content of about 15 grams per 56 gram serving. When compared to other meat products such as beef, poultry, and fish, fat contains significantly more calories than carbohydrates or proteins, with each gram of fat containing nine calories.
Frequent consumption of high-fat foods like spam can increase your overall calorie intake and contribute to weight gain. There is nothing healthy about gaining weight, it only gives way to more serious health problems.
Conclusion
In this brief guide, we have answered the query, “Can you eat spam raw?” We have also discussed the different positive and negative aspects of eating spam.
