In today’s world of convenience and rushed schedules, it’s not uncommon to grab a few canned goods off the shelf or pick up ‘fresh’ juice from the supermarket. But do we always know what’s inside these products? Here’s a breakdown of what you might want to add to your cart, what you should think twice about, and a few things to watch out for on the grocery shelves.
6 Canned Foods You Should Buy Right Now:
Black Beans:
These little beans are a nutritional powerhouse. Their protein, fiber, and abundance of essential minerals, like iron and phosphorus, make them a must-have. Plus, they’re a great anti-inflammatory food, thanks to the antioxidants they contain.
Green Beans:
Crunchy and mild in flavor, green beans can be added to various dishes. They’re not just tasty but also packed with vitamin C, fiber, and folate. Low in calories, they make a guilt-free addition to any meal.
Lentils:
An ancient food, lentils are still relevant today, thanks to their impressive nutritional profile. They’re especially useful for those following vegetarian or vegan diets due to their high protein content. Plus, they’re a great source of iron and fiber.
Pineapple Chunks:
Who doesn’t love a tropical treat? Pineapple chunks are loaded with vitamins, enzymes, and antioxidants, making them a great choice for boosting immunity and aiding digestion. Just ensure you’re getting the ones in natural juice and not in sugary syrup.
Beets:
These deep red veggies are bursting with essential nutrients. From B vitamins to potassium, beets are as healthy as they are delicious. Plus, they may assist in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
Pears:
A timeless favorite, canned pears are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. Always pick the ones packed in natural juice or water to keep sugar levels in check.
5 Canned Foods You Should Steer Clear Of:
Clams Packed in Oil:
Though clams can be nutritious, the ones soaked in oil can pile on unnecessary fats and calories. Choose those in water or go fresh.
Mixed Vegetable Cans with Added Sodium:
Excessive salt is a no-no for heart health. When opting for canned veggies, choose reduced or no sodium variants.
Chili with Added Sugars:
Sweet chili? More like unhealthy chili. Excess sugar can contribute to several health concerns. Read labels carefully.
Green Beans with Artificial Additives:
Green beans are great, but not when they come with a side of artificial additives and preservatives.
Canned Sausages:
High in unhealthy additives and salt, these are best avoided for better health alternatives.
9 Grocery Products to Approach with Caution:
Canned or Packaged Tuna:
Make sure your tuna is actually tuna. Some brands use escalar, which can cause unpleasant side effects.
Fake Steak:
Beware of restaurants using meat glue. It’s not just deceptive but can also be a health hazard.
Maple Syrup:
Most commercial options are sugar syrups with artificial flavoring. Go authentic or go home!
Imitation Crab:
These often contain a slew of additives and are far from the real deal.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil:
Don’t be duped by fake oils. Check authenticity and buy from trusted sources.
Parmesan Cheese:
If your cheese contains wood pulp, it’s time to switch brands.
Commercial Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice:
‘Fresh’ might not always mean fresh. Dive deeper into the labels and processes.
Instant Coffee:
Some blends come with unexpected fillers and health concerns.
Blueberry Products:
Fake blueberries are more common than you’d think. Always check for genuine ingredients.
In Conclusion
Shopping wisely can make all the difference to your health and wellbeing. Being informed, reading labels, and understanding what goes into your food is crucial. So the next time you’re pushing your cart down the grocery aisle, keep this guide handy and make choices that nourish your body and soul.
