Processed meat causes cancer? Eat llama instead, says Bolivia's health ministry

Bolivia's health ministry has recommended eating llama instead of processed meat, after the World Health Organisation warned an excess of red meat could cause cancer

File photo: Llama standing in the Andean Highlands, Bolivia. Bolivia's health ministry has recommended eating llama instead of processed meat Photo: Alamy

Llama meat has been part of the traditional Bolivian diet for centuries, and has recently become an eye-catching addition to the menu in smart Andean restaurants. 

And Vicky Aguilar, director of the alimentation and nutrition department in the ministry of health, said that llama was a healthy alternative to red meat. 

"We have very good meat such as llama with a very low fat content, which helps – but should be consumed in moderation," she said. 

Llama meat has switched from being something that poor farmer would eat to being highly-sought after at fashionable gatherings. Llama carpaccio is said to be a particular delicacy and Andean cuisine – in particular Peruvian – is considered to be imaginative and full of flavour. 

"All excesses can cause harm, however," said Ms Aguilar. "Unfortunately we have poor dietary habits. 

"Bolivia has a variety of agricultural land where vegetables and fruit can grow in abundance. What is missing is consumers who know that they need to vary their diet and feed themselves properly." 

Jose Luis Ramos, spokesman for Bolivia's federation of meat workers, said that internal consumption of processed meat had not fallen since the WHO issued their warnings. 

"Sales are as usual," he said. "People are more concerned about genetic modification."