Nutrition
Six long-life foods that are good for you
Six long-life foods that can help you in the long run
OVER THE PAST COUPLE of months, we’ve all been spending far more time in (and, usually, outside) supermarkets than usual. One way people have limited the number of trips they have to make is to stock up on foods that won’t go off quickly (tinned goods have been in notably short supply, with even the dented tins of black-eye beans being snapped up). Many of us have formed new food-shopping habits, and they may stick, so here’s our pick of nutritious options that will wait patiently until you need them (see right):
1. Dried apricots
Fresh fruit and pandemics aren’t the best coupling, but you don’t need a garden or greenhouse to meet your RDA of minerals and vitamins. Bursting with fibre and potassium, dried apricots satisfy your sugar cravings without spiking your blood sugar.
2. Baked beans
A favourite when you were a kid, a staple when you were a student and akin to gold dust recently. Just half a tin provides almost 8g of fibre, as well as vital minerals such as iron and zinc.
3. Fish fingers
If your seafood tastes are on the basic side, there’s always the humble fish finger. With a frozen lifespan of about 18 months, this childhood classic is a no-fuss option with surprising benefits. Boost your intake of essential fatty acids by selecting brands that advertise higher levels of omega-3, and purchase wholegrain options to sneak in some extra fibre.
4. Smoked anchovies
Anchovies may not top the list of your stockpiling necessities, but they’re brimming with nutritional goodness. When brined and cold-smoked, they retain their healthy fats and micronutrients. They also provide zinc, which is crucial for your immune system.
5. Jerky
With high levels of protein, iron and B vitamins, this salty snack will ease your hunger pangs when you’ve lost all motivation to cook.
6. Peanut butter
An old friend for many runners. However, some peanut butters are laced with added sugar and hydrogenated oils, so choose unsweetened brands that use roasted nuts for an antioxidantrich snack.