Which Packaged Food Is Healthy?

For those of us who are too busy to cook, or just have trouble finding the time, packaged food can be a real lifesaver. But with so many options out there, how do you know which ones are healthy? The truth is, that it depends on what type of packaged food you’re looking to buy.

Frozen Meals: Frozen meals can be a great way to get a quick and easy meal without having to cook. However, many frozen meals are high in sodium and preservatives and can be lacking in nutritional content. When looking for a healthy frozen meal, look for ones that contain a good amount of protein and fiber, as well as fewer ingredients that are unfamiliar or hard-to-pronounce.

Canned Foods: Canned foods can be an easy way to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet. However, canned foods may also contain added sugars, sodium and preservatives. Look for cans labeled “no added sugar” or “low sodium” for healthier options.

Snack Foods: Snack foods such as chips, crackers and cookies are often loaded with fat, sugar and calories. When choosing snack foods opt for low-fat options such as popcorn or pretzels that are made with whole grain ingredients. Nuts and dried fruits can also make a tasty snack without all the added fat and sugar found in some packaged snacks.

Prepared Foods: Prepared foods such as pre-made sandwiches, salads and wraps can be convenient but they’re often high in sodium and calories. Look for prepared foods that are made with whole grains, lean proteins and fresh vegetables to get the most nutritional bang for your buck.

In general, when choosing packaged food look for items with few ingredients listed on the label that you recognize as being healthy. Avoid items that are high in sodium or sugar or contain preservatives or artificial flavors.

Conclusion: When it comes to packaged food there is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to what is healthy versus what isn’t. However by looking at the ingredients list on the label you can make better choices when selecting packaged foods so you can ensure you’re getting the most nutrition out of your meal without sacrificing taste or convenience.