I am newly back and I am on induction. I have a question regarding processed meat - ie luchmeat, sausage, etc. It seems virtually impossible, when looking at ingredient labels, to find sausage, bacon, etc that is not cured with sugar or corn syrup.

Years ago, I followed OA's "grey sheet" which stated that you could have food with sugar as long as it was the 4th or 5th ingredient. Does that sound crazy? I mean, is there any flexibility with this on Atkins, or is it black and white (any sugar = a "no-no")

Please help. Thanks

Hi LotusLaura!

Generally it's best to avoid processed meats, but having them once in a while probably won't hurt. Most of the time the sugars in them amount to 1 gram of carb or less per serving. I'd be more concerned about the sodium and nitrites that most processed meats contain (also stallers), than about the small amount of sugar.

I've found that fresh Italian sausages tend to be sugar- and filler-free (no wheat crumbs or milk powder). Also .. I've noticed that the "major name" brands of salt-reduced bacon tend to have less sugar in them too, or even no sugar at all. Just a note though ... without all that salt and sugar, it tends to spoil quicker. I will often cook a whole package at once, then wrap and freeze portions that are quick to thaw and heat, or use in a salad, omelette, etc.

Doreen

Thanks Doreen and Lisa, for your informative replies!!!