Ready-to-Eat (RTE) breakfasts and snacks such as idli, pongal, and poha offer convenient and quick meal options that cater to traditional tastes with modern convenience. These dishes are staples in Indian cuisine and are popular for their light yet satisfying nature.
1. Ingredients: Prefer products that use natural and whole grain ingredients. For example, poha made from red rice or whole grain idlis offer more fiber and nutrients compared to those made from highly processed grains.
2. Low sodium: Look for options that are low in sodium, with less than 300 mg per serving. Many RTE meals can be high in sodium to enhance flavor and preservation, which is not ideal.
3. Added sugars: Especially in breakfast items, added sugars can be a concern. Ensure that the products do not contain unnecessary sugars.
4. Additives: Opt for breakfast and snack options that have minimal artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
5. Calorie content: For RTE snacks and breakfasts, calorie content should be appropriate for their intended use—typically between 150-300 calories per serving for snacks and 200-400 calories for breakfast items.
When selecting RTE breakfast and snacks like idli, pongal, and poha, focus on options made with whole grains and natural ingredients. Choose products low in sodium and free from added sugars and unnecessary additives.