Lunch meat facts for kids
A platter of coldcuts
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| Alternative names | Cold cuts, luncheon meats, sandwich meats, cooked meats, sliced meats, cold meats, deli meats |
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| Main ingredients | Meat |
Lunch meats, also called cold cuts or deli meats, are types of meat that are already cooked or specially prepared. They are usually sliced thin and can be eaten cold or heated up. People often put them in sandwiches or serve them on a platter. You can buy them already sliced in sealed packs, or have them sliced fresh at a deli counter.
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What Are Lunch Meats?
Lunch meats are a quick and easy way to add protein to your meal. They are popular because they are convenient and come in many different flavors. These meats are often made from meat like pork, beef, or chicken.
Popular Kinds of Lunch Meats
There are many different kinds of lunch meats from all over the world. Some are made from a single type of meat, while others mix different meats and spices.
Here are some common examples:
- Ham: This is a very popular lunch meat made from pork. It can be baked, boiled, or smoked.
- Turkey Breast: This is a lean and healthy choice, often made from turkey meat.
- Roast Beef: This comes from beef that has been roasted. It has a rich, savory flavor.
- Bologna: This is a type of sausage that is often finely ground and spiced. It's a classic for sandwiches.
- Salami: This is a cured sausage, usually made from fermented and air-dried meat. It often has a strong, spicy taste.
- Pepperoni: A spicy type of salami, often used on pizza.
- Pastrami: This is usually made from beef that has been cured, smoked, and steamed. It's known for its peppery crust.
Keeping Lunch Meats Safe
It's important to handle lunch meats safely to avoid getting sick. Since they are often eaten cold, they need to be stored properly.
- Always keep lunch meats in the refrigerator.
- If you are going to eat them cold, make sure they have been kept cold.
- If you are heating them up, like for a hot sandwich, make sure they are steaming hot. This means they should reach a temperature of about 165 °F (74 °C).
- Try to eat opened packages of lunch meat within a few days. Always check the "use by" date on the package.
Images for kids
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A platter of coldcuts
See also
In Spanish: Fiambre para niños
