MASON CITY, IA - "We can't come out and say it does cause cancer."
Dietitian Alyssa Rider says there is research out there connecting processed meats to cancer but bacon is only a small part of it.
"When you look at nutritional facts you see it's high in saturated fats and a source of cholesterol and can cause heart disease. Heart disease is prevalent in all populations including cancer."
That's where the billboard comes in. The Washington based group Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine is putting the sign up Des Moines. It’s just in time for the National Pork Board meeting on November 14th.
But local hog producer, Norman Schmitt says, "Anybody who can put enough money together can buy a billboard."
Schmitt tells us the vegan group has been known to target pork producers.
"Iowa is the number one state for producing pork. It's a very high economic factor for Iowa in general."
But he says he's not worried this dramatic message will hurt business.
"I think most of the time they don't have all the facts and don't want to promote the other side."
Rider does agree it's not just bacon that's to blame, and it's just like mom always said everything in moderation.
"I wouldn't make bacon a daily indulgence and I would really try to limit the processed foods in my diet."
