Researchers at University College London (UCL) and the University of Leeds surveyed 1,330 people and found that mistaken belief in ‘mythical’ causes of cancer is worryingly common.
A further 19% thought microwave ovens caused the disease and 15% said drinking from plastic bottles also did, despite a lack of good scientific evidence.
A spokesperson from the British Nutrition Foundation said: “Some evidence suggests that the food additive nitrates, used to preserve some processed meats such as bacon and ham, could produce chemicals that may increase the risk of cancer.
“However, there is currently no other evidence for a link between food additives and cancer risk, so concerns about the safety of food additives are generally not supported by scientific studies.
“All food additives used in the EU must undergo rigorous safety testing before they can be used in certain foods, and with maximum defined levels.
"There is not enough evidence at the moment to suggest that GM foods affect cancer risk. GM foods are safety assessed by European authorities and will only be on sale in the UK if they are not a risk to health."