Barbecues and Your Health: Hosting a BarbeCURE® for a Good Cause

16 Jan 2022
A message from Cure Cancer

Image supplied by http://www.zgrills.com.au/

Barbecuing is one of our great Aussie traditions – a fun way to bring together family and friends, enjoy great food and beautiful weather. But it can also be an opportunity to make a difference. That’s why Cure Cancer created BarbeCURE®—a nationwide initiative designed to raise awareness and funds to support Australia’s best and brightest cancer researchers. 

Finding a Balance

Cure Cancer developed BarbeCURE® following careful consultation with researchers and medical experts, considering the impact of diet on cancer risk. We acknowledge concerns surrounding the consumption of red and processed meats, as highlighted by the World Health Organisation (WHO), and believe that with the right approach, a barbecue can be both enjoyable and healthy. 

To ensure BarbeCURE® promotes balanced, nutritious eating, we are committed to: 

  • Encouraging a varied diet that includes plenty of plant-based foods, lean protein sources, and whole grains. 
  • Providing a diverse range of healthy recipes suitable for all dietary preferences. 
  • Raising awareness of the importance of moderation, particularly in relation to processed meats and the risks associated with burnt or charred foods. 

Making Healthier Choices

Healthy dips

While red meat can be a valuable source of iron, zinc, vitamin B12, and protein, it is recommended to limit intake to no more than 455g of cooked lean red meat per week. To make your barbecue as health-conscious as possible, consider: 

  • Choosing lean cuts of meat and poultry while incorporating more fish and plant-based proteins. 
  • Avoiding processed meats such as sausages, bacon, and deli meats, which are linked to an increased cancer risk. 
  • Cooking meat at lower temperatures and avoiding charring, which can produce harmful compounds. 
  • Prioritising vegetables and whole foods—grilled vegetable skewers, fresh salads, and wholegrain sides can be both delicious and nutritious. 

Host a BarbeCURE® Your Way

A BarbeCURE® can take any form—it could be a backyard gathering, a corporate event, or even a gourmet dinner. It doesn’t even have to involve a barbecue! The key is bringing people together to support life-saving cancer research. 

By hosting a BarbeCURE®, you’re not only enjoying a meal with loved ones but also helping to kick start groundbreakingl research that will save countless lives. However you choose to get involved, know that you’ll be supporting Cure Cancer’s mission to find impactful solutions in record time 

Ready to fire up the grill for a cause? Sign up today and turn your next barbecue into a BarbeCURE®