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In the average household, 8 per cent of the food budget is spent on takeaway food, sometimes called fast food. Recent statistics suggest that this figure is increasing.
Most takeaway foods are high in salt, fat and energy (calories), but are low in fibre, complex carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.
The regular consumption of these meals, especially fried foods and those containing pastry, for example pies and pasties, can lead to diet-related conditions such as obesity, high blood pressure and heart disease. Small pieces of fried food such as chicken nuggets and French fries contain proportionally more fat than big portions.
However, takeaway food can be healthy. Choose meals with a high bread and vegetable content; foods that are grilled or steamed; fresh fruit; and low-fat yoghurts and milk. Chinese stir fry with steamed rice is a healthier choice than sweet and sour chicken with fried rice.
A cheaper, and often quicker, alternative to takeaway food is to prepare food at home.
