Is it safe to eat packaged “heat and eat” foods during pregnancy?
From pulao and chholey to dosa, mutter paneer, paranthas, koftas and more – the variety of ready-to-eat packaged meals increasingly available in India may make life easier for you after a particularly tiring day or when you have sudden guests. But it’s best to limit their intake, especially when you are pregnant as they’re unlikely to provide the nutrients essential for the healthy growth of your baby. Chances are that the pre-cooked dal makhani and navratan korma you heated is quite tasty and full of calories, but too salty and lacking in essential vitamins (particularly vitamin B1 and water-soluble vitamins like vitamin C) and minerals. In the process of preserving, many of the vitamins get destroyed and this can cause multiple deficiencies. So, as far as possible, opt for fresh, home-prepared food – it’s your best bet for a healthy pregnancy. The recent boom in the readymade food industry and the entry of big brands has managed to resolve many safety issues related to food processin
