Why are canned foods healthy?
During the canning process, they are canned quickly, when their flavour, vitamins and minerals are highest, this canning process preserves the food, and therefore helps to prevent further nutrient loss. Canned Food UK have produced a leaflet detailing some of the health benefits to be gained from including these foods in our diet. They have listed some interesting facts, which many may not be aware of: • A 100g serving of canned tomatoes, spinach or apricots will provide almost a quarter of the Recommended Daily Amount (RDA) for vitamin C, providing more than fresh equivalents. Canned gooseberries or blackcurrants provide over half the RDA for vitamin C. • Canned fruits, vegetables, beans and pulses are great sources of fibre. For example, 3 tablespoons of canned kidney beans provides 6g of fibre, whilst half a can of ratatouille provides 3g. • Canned pilchards, salmon, mackerel, sardines and kippers are all great sources of omega 3 fatty acids, which play a role in the prevention of h