WHILE YOU WERE probably aware that your Friday night Indian takeaway wasn’t the healthiest meal of the week, a new survey has revealed the stark levels of calories and salt in each portion.
The latest research conducted by Safefood as part of their Nutrition Takeout Series found that the typical Indian takeaway contains enough food for two people with approximately twice their recommended maximum level of fat.
A typical meal consisting of a starter, main course, and pilau rice can contains far more than the total daily calorie requirement for adults.
Researchers found some samples of Peshwari naan bread had as much as 168% of an adult’s total guideline daily amount for saturated fat.
All starters contained more than one third of the guideline daily amount for salt.
Dr Cliodhna Foley-Nolan, director of human health and nutrition with Safefood said: “These dishes have become very popular, but the Indian dishes tested in this survey were less than healthy.”
While traditional meals in India are low in fat, high in fibre and rich in fruit and vegetables, chefs here have adapted their recipes to suit local tastebuds favouring foods high in fat and salt and serving bigger portions.
However, the message isn’t that this food should be avoided completely as Ruth Price from Ulster University, who carried out the research for Safefood, explained:
Our advice is not that consumers should avoid these takeaway foods, but rather consider consuming them less often and in moderation, by either choosing smaller portions, sharing portions or limiting the added extras such as starters and side orders.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, that might not be possible. Less than 10% of takeaways provided information on this.
Here’s how some of the most popular meals breakdown:
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