Americans eat about 24-billion pounds of beef each year.
But now a major report links red meat to cancer.

A division of the World Health Organization states processed meats like hot dogs and bacon can cause cancer.
Processed meat refers to anything that's been cured, salted, smoked or fermented to enhance flavor or lengthen shelf life. 

The problem with these meats is all the food additives in them, according to nutritionist, Dr. Armon Shayesteh.

"When they are processed they contain salt, preservatives, nitrites, and these chemicals come in contact with the intestines lining and increases the risk of colon cancer," says Shayesteh.

Experts do say, however, red meats can be eaten in moderation, maybe once or twice a week.

NBC News Health Editor, Madelyn Fernstrom, says, "They contain abundant nutrients that we all really need. it's concentrated protein, all the amino acids for good health, and importantly it has vitamin B12 and iron."

Dr. Shayesteh says here's what you should be eating more of: "Increase consumption of fish, chicken, and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. That is the best way to shut down the inflammation in your body, It enhances growth of friendly bacteria, by having nuts and fruits and vegetables you can improve your gut health."

The W.H.O.'s report puts processed meat in the same cancer-causing category as cigarettes but it does not mean they're equal in terms of danger.
Some studies show people who eat a lot of processed meat may have double the colon cancer risk as those who don't eat any.

Smoking multiplies a person's risk for cancer by as much as 20 times.