Should the food bank be allowed to say no to junk?
Why is it considered a controversial move?
The question ought to be : Why should we give people poor quality food?
Everyone deserves to eat good quality food, even if they can’t buy it. It’s not right for food banks to give out unhealthy food that is full of fat, sugar and salt which will make them sick, which will increase the health care cost, something we all complain about. A good way to reduce that cost is to focus on preventive health care, i.e., good and healthy food.
Healthy Affordable Food
Dried Beans And Lentils
Dried lentils and beans are the most bang for your buck when it comes to getting healthy food for cheap. In most grocery stores, you can get a 16 oz. bag for under $2.00. Lentils and beans are packed with protein and fiber -- a great substitute or accompaniment for the more expensive meat options -- and a low calorie one too. Lentils are an especially great option because they don't require any soaking time, and can be ready in just 20 minutes.
Whole Wheat Pasta
We all know that pasta is an economical option. It doesn't cost much, and yet is the main ingredient in many dishes. But most of us tend to avoid it because it's been labeled as having no nutritional value (and many diets claim that it causes weight gain). But whole wheat pasta is a healthy option. It's made with whole wheat flour which hasn't been stripped of the nutritional germ. Whole wheat pasta is just as affordable as white pasta, but offers a good amount of protein and fiber.
Whole Wheat
Potatoes
Many people think that potatoes are not a healthy option, but that's just because they're usually loaded with butter, sour cream and bacon bits. But potatoes, when cooked simply, make a healthy, tasty and economical option. And they offer fiber, protein, iron and potassium.
Canned Tuna
Canned tuna has always been a reliable and cheap option for protein. You can get a 3 oz. serving of tuna for less than a dollar and that serving will provide you with 13 g of protein. You'll want to watch your intake of this protein however, because it has been reported to have high levels of mercury.
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Mercury in canned tuna still a concern
Bulgur
Bulgur is a whole grain that doesn't get enough attention in many home cooks kitchen. It's often times used in taboulleh salad, though works in many other recipes. It has more protein, fiber and vitamins than white rice, and makes a satisfying side dish.
Eggs
Eggs have been coming back recently after suffering from an unfair reputation. Contrary to popular belief, eggs are not dangerous shells housing bad cholesterol. While they should be eaten in moderation, they are loaded with good proteins. Nearly 100 percent of the egg's protein is usable by your body. You can find eggs for just $2.00 a dozen (though many organic and cage-free options are more expensive).
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Save money without sacrificing health benefits when you add these nutrient-dense edibles to your grocery list
Quinoa
While not as inexpensive as rice, quinoa is still an affordable option for a healthy side. It also works well in salads -- and is a filling ingredient. It's such a great source of protein (it is a complete protein) and is a good source of calcium, iron and fiber.
Tofu
Tofu has wrongly been labeled a vegetarian food. And while it is a great protein option for those who don't eat meat, it's an affordable option for meat eaters too.Tofu is a quarter of the price of meat in most areas, and is a versatile cooking ingredient.
Brown Rice
Brown rice is a whole grain and it's just as affordable as white rice, which has been stripped of its original nutrients. With a serving of brown rice you get fiber, protein and essential minerals such as magnesium and zinc. And when a one pound bag costs a little under $2.00, with 10 servings per bag, it's an economical option for healthy eating.
WATCH: How To Stock Your Kitchen With Healthy Foods
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