From popcorn to cornflakes, here are 9 food items that aren't as healthy as you thought!

Sep 25, 2024

By: Ankush Banerjee

Credit: Pixabay

What is healthy anymore?

Most of us have fallen victim to the whole “popcorn is a healthy snack” assumption, without really looking at the calories packed into each handful. Let’s look at other foods that also require a tad more careful consideration than we typically give them.

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​Puffed rice (bhel or murmura)​

Commonly consumed as a light snack, but often mixed with fried ingredients, oil, and high-sodium seasonings.

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​Packaged masala oats​

A popular "healthy" breakfast option, but packaged versions are high in sodium and preservatives.

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​Fruit-flavoured yoghurt, such as shrikhand​

While yoghurt is healthy, these versions are loaded with added sugars, making them less nutritious.

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​Instant idli or dosa mixes​

Convenient and seen as healthy, but instant mixes often contain preservatives and higher levels of sodium.

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​Lassi​

A popular drink in India, but flavoured or packaged versions are high in sugar, reducing their health benefits.

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​Multi-grain or brown bread​

Often perceived as healthier, but many brands use refined flour (maida) with little whole grains.

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​Microwave popcorn​

Many brands of microwave popcorn contain unhealthy trans fats in the form of hydrogenated oils, artificial butter flavouring, and preservatives. The packaging may also contain harmful chemicals like PFOAs.

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​Diet namkeen​

Seen as a healthier snack, but still high in sodium and made with refined oils.

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​Cornflakes or chocos​

A common breakfast choice, but often loaded with sugar and made from refined grains, making them less healthy.

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