Finland definitely had the E code craze. And more recently about natrium glutamate, when many products advertised getting rid of it. That was basically fueled by FUD.

But processed meat basically requires nitrates (E249-250) to avoid bacteria growth and the recommended intake for those is rather low especially for children. That's one I would worry about if processed meat is common in diet.

https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/press/news/170615