Nutrition Tip - Grocery Store Series: Canned Products

Grocery Series: Canned Products

Canned foods are generally frowned upon as healthy foods. No healthy food should ever be able to stay good for 2 years right? Not necessarily. While it can be true that the majority of canned foods are unhealthy, a small amount in the diet can be healthy. I am not recommending you eat canned foods every day. I am recommending you use them as a supplement to your healthy recipes and when you are in a rush and have nothing else available.

The one thing you should be concerned with in all canned foods is sodium. Salt is what makes them shelf stable for so long. You want to choose low sodium or no-salt added for all canned foods. This includes canned foods like: vegetables, soups, broth, stock, tomato products, and beans.

For tomato products like canned tomatoes, marinara, or pasta sauce, it’s best to purchase in a glass container versus a can because of the acidity of the tomatoes. The tomatoes can start to break down the metals in the can which can then leach into your food. Not something you want to be consuming on a regular basis!

Broths and stocks can be a quick and convenient option to making your own broth for healthy soups. I recommend a no-salt, fat-free stock for the base of a healthy soup. Add your own fresh herbs, spices, and a pinch of salt for flavor.

I always keep a couple cans of soup in my pantry for those busy times when I don’t have a chance to cook. Although it’s not the healthiest option, it’s much better than running out for fast food or other unhealthy convenient foods.

The moral of the story is to choose reduced sodium canned products and use them in moderation. They are convenient and cheap which will save you from running out for unhealthier food items.