NutritionDoc

Looking for frozen entrees to help you cut down on calories and sat fat and eat more healthfully? You won't have to look far. Lower calorie frozen entrees now occupy about half the supermarket freezer space devoted to frozen entrees and dinners. While the 3 industry leaders in light fare remain Con Agra Healtghy Choice, Stouffer's Lean Cuisine and Weight Watchers Smart Ones, the number of choices from all brands has grown exponentially.

 

Not all light entrees are created equal. Some are c onsiderably lighter in calories than others, some are lighter in sodium and several are surprisingly good sources of fiber, especially vegetarian entrees.To your benefit, manufacturers are offering more seafood choices, whole wheat pasta and brown rice in their products. Some even brag a "full serving of veggies". You will also now find more sophisticatged offerings like Roasted Chicken Chardonnay, Steak Tips Portobello and Salmon with Basil.

 

But while lots of frozen entrees are now low in fat, sat fat and calories, many are still plagued by excessive sodium.  And while single servings are certainly convenient when eating alone, the typical plastic tray covered in plastic wrap is not environmentally friendly.

 

Light Entree Advice:

 

1.  Pay attention to serving sizes; they range from less than 8 oz. to more than 12 oz. Smaller entrees may leave you hungry.

2. Read package contents carefully. Some products contain an entree with a sprinkling of veggies, rice or potatoes, while others offer one or two full servings of side dishes.

3. Scrutinize sodium. Though fat and calories may have been trimmed, some light entrees are still high in sodium. READ LABELS.

4. Skip products that include dessert. Add your own fresh fruit instead.

5. Make your meal complete if its just an entree by including a whole grain roll, green salad and vegetable.