CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: The mention of street food often brings to mind samosas, kachoris, chaat, momos and fried items. These foods are popular for their taste, but their high oil, salt and calorie content can have a negative impact on health. However, not every street food option is unhealthy. Some foods are prepared with nutritious ingredients and, if made with proper hygiene, can be included as part of a balanced diet.
Bhelpuri can be a better choice
Bhelpuri can include ingredients such as puffed rice, onion, tomato, cucumber, coriander and lemon. Adding fresh vegetables provides fibre and some vitamins. However, adding too much sev, namkeen, sweet chutney and salt can increase its calorie and sodium content. It is therefore better to choose bhelpuri with less salt and less sev.
Roasted corn is also a good option
Roadside roasted corn is a source of fibre and carbohydrates. It can be eaten with lemon and a limited quantity of spices. Avoid using too much extra salt while eating it. People with diabetes should decide the quantity of corn according to their meals and blood sugar control.
Give priority to idli and steamed foods
Idli is steamed and uses comparatively less oil. When eaten with sambar, it can also provide protein, fibre and other nutrients. Similarly, some steamed foods can be better options than fried items. However, their nutritional value depends on the ingredients and the way they are served.
Snacks made from chickpeas and moong
Snacks made from boiled chickpeas, sprouted moong and other pulses can provide protein and fibre. Their nutritional value can be increased by adding onion, tomato, lemon and green coriander. But it is important to pay special attention to the hygiene of sprouts and chopped vegetables. Food prepared with contaminated water or in unhygienic conditions can cause stomach infections.
Take precautions while eating street food
Along with choosing healthy options, it is also important to pay attention to food hygiene. Always buy food from a stall where ingredients are kept covered, food is freshly prepared and clean water is used. Avoid chutneys kept in the open, cut fruits, undercooked ingredients and items fried in oil that has been reused repeatedly.
To make street food healthier, choose options with less oil, less salt and less sweet chutney. Also watch portion size, and include fruits, vegetables, whole grains and protein-rich foods in everyday meals.
Balanced eating is the key to better health
No street food can be considered completely healthy only on the basis of its name or ingredients. Its nutritional value depends on the method of preparation, the quality of ingredients and the quantity eaten. Therefore, nutrition and hygiene must be prioritised along with taste.
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