The first frozen meal in a box was created in 1954. Since then, companies have gotten a lot more savvy and are creating more low-fat and low-calorie meals to satisfy demand from health-conscious consumers. 7Healthcast reporter Dr. Deanna Lites explains what we should look for to stay healthy.
We all do it. With little time for lunch, we opt for frozen meals instead. And they're better for you than fast food, right?
"You've gotta watch that nutrition label," Dietician Lona Sandon said. "Flip that box over, and check that nutrition label, because some of those frozen foods are going to be just as high in calories and fat as what you might buy at a fast food restaurant."
So how can you tell the difference? Sandon says when you're buying frozen meals, pay close attention to calories, fat and sodium. To keep it in the healthy range, a meal should between 400 and 600 calories or less. Take a look at total fat. Your meal should be less than 20 percent of the daily value for fat and for dieters, 5 percent or so is best.
When it comes to saturated fat, look for three grams or less. Finally, look for less than 600 milligrams of sodium. If you are watching your sodium intake for health reasons, like high blood pressure, aim for less than 400 grams.
And know that frozen meals can be good choices.
"One of the benefits of doing some of these frozen dinners is that it's portion controlled, so they do help people eat a little bit less and stick within a calorie level," Sandon said.
You can also look for meals that have a good portion of vegetables.
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