Is a Food Steamer Healthy?

Food steamers are an increasingly popular way to cook food, allowing for healthful and delicious meals with minimal effort. Though food steamers are often touted as a healthier alternative to other methods of cooking, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks of using a food steamer as well.

Pros

One of the key benefits of using a food steamer is that it helps retain more of the natural nutrients found in food than other cooking methods, such as boiling or frying. This is due to the fact that the steam cooks the food without exposing it to high temperatures which can cause nutrient loss. Additionally, since most steamers include a basket or rack which holds the food above the boiling water, fat is not added during the cooking process, making steamed foods lower in fat and calories than traditionally cooked foods.

Cons

Though steaming preserves many of the nutrients found in food, some studies suggest that certain vitamins and minerals may be lost in the process. Additionally, some people find that steamed foods lack flavor compared to other cooking methods such as roasting or sautéing. Furthermore, since most steamers require water for operation, they can be time consuming and require more energy to use than other cooking methods.

Conclusion:
Overall, while there are some drawbacks associated with using a food steamer such as potential nutrient loss and longer cook times, on balance it can be an effective way to prepare healthy meals with minimal effort.