Healthy Convenience Foods found even in an Indian Supermarket

Dt. Neetha Dilip

M. Sc. Foods, Nutrition & Dietetics · Dietitian/Nutritionist · 

10 Healthy Convenience Foods found even in an Indian Supermarket

Does a visit to your local supermarket always leaves you craving for delicious chocolates, gourmet ice creams, ready to eat spicy desi khana and the two-minute wonder noodles? While these convenience foods present the unhealthier side of the picture, you’d be surprised to know that healthier variants exist as well. Read on to know about the 10 healthy foods you can find at your local supermarket as well.

1. Packaged Poha: Quite a few brands sell this Indian breakfast delicacy. Pick it up if you run short of time every morning. One serving of Poha contains only 270 calories. It is gluten-free and is also effective in preventing iron deficiency.

2. Upma: You’ll find rows and rows of MTR Upma practically in every supermarket of the nation. This scrumptious breakfast item is made of sooji, and is an excellent source of protein. The low fat content and a calorie count of 180 makes it ideal for those looking to lose some weight.

3. Cornflakes: There are so many options to choose from in here. They come in flavours; they are specific for children, for those who want to lose weight and what not. Cornflakes are rich in riboflavin, niacin, Vitamins A, B and B12 and are definitely a healthy eating option.

4. Pasta: You have Maggi, Sunfeast, Chef’s Basket and more to take your pick from. Pasta is low in sodium and is practically cholesterol-free. A cup of pasta is your source of iron, fibres and vitamins. Just be sure to avoid the cheese flavoured ones.

5. Ready to Eat Vegetable Pulao: Pulao cooked with a healthy dose of vegetables like carrots, beans, capsicums etc is a healthy source carotene, fibres, and vitamins A and C. Some are good for your heart, some for your eyes and some for immunity.

6. Masala Oats: Choose Quaker or Saffola, that’s your call; but masala oats are the new health snack for those who want to gorge on something delicious guilt-free. Oats are a great source of fibre and are known to improve immunity, reduce the risk of Type -2 diabetes, lower cholesterol, control high BP and reduce the risk of asthma in children.

7. Frozen Vegetables: Safal Matar or Godrej’s Nature’s Basket, you’re spoilt for choice. Frozen vegetables last longer while still retaining all their essential nutrients. Plus, they are pre-washed and chopped, saving you all the hassle. Rich in all sorts of vitamins and minerals, you can stir fry or microwave them all you want.

8. Granola Bars: The key to picking out the right granola bars lies in selecting the ones made for athletes. Dried fruits, nuts, banana chips and honey make this a healthier alternative to chocolate. Some granola bar brands even fortify their bars with omega 3 fatty acids, making it an excellent healthy snacking option.

9. Soups: Organic soups are the way to go if you’re looking for a light and healthy snack. The ones fortified with real vegetables are the healthiest in fact. Opt for the ones in can and check the ingredients to be absolutely sure.

10. Yoghurt: Nestle, Britannia, and Amul dahi is something you’ll definitely find in the frozen foods section of the supermarket. Yoghurt contains animal protein, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and vitamins B-2 and B-12. The friendly bacteria in yoghurt contain probiotic which is good for your immune as well as digestive system.