Fish and chips are a classic British dish, widely enjoyed across the UK. But is it healthy? Chip shop fish and chips can be high in fat and salt, but there are ways to make it a healthier meal. In this article, we explore the health benefits and risks of eating chip shop fish and chips, as well as ways to make it a healthier meal.
What Is Chip Shop Fish and Chips?
Chip shop fish and chips is a traditional British dish which consists of deep-fried battered fish, usually cod or haddock, served with thick-cut chips (fries). It is often served with tartar sauce and a slice of lemon, and it is usually accompanied by some kind of side dish such as mushy peas or baked beans. The dish is popular in the UK, where it is served in pubs, restaurants, and takeaways.
Nutritional Content of Fish and Chips
Fish and chips can be a high-fat meal, as the fish is usually deep-fried in oil. The nutritional content will vary depending on the type of fish used, but generally, a portion of chip shop fish and chips contains around 1,000 calories and 60g of fat. It is also high in salt, with a portion containing around 1.5g of salt, which is around a quarter of an adult’s recommended daily intake.
Health Benefits of Eating Fish and Chips
Although the high fat and salt content of chip shop fish and chips means that it should not be eaten too often, there are some health benefits associated with eating fish and chips. Fish is an excellent source of protein and contains essential fatty acids, including omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for heart health and can help to reduce inflammation. Fish is also an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium.
Health Risks of Eating Fish and Chips
Eating too much chip shop fish and chips can increase the risk of health problems, as it is high in saturated fat and salt. Eating too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease, and eating too much salt can increase the risk of high blood pressure. In addition, deep-fried foods can contain potentially harmful compounds such as acrylamide, which is a known carcinogen.
Making Fish and Chips Healthier
There are ways to make fish and chips a healthier meal. For example, it can be cooked in a healthier oil such as rapeseed or olive oil, and oven baked instead of fried. This will reduce the fat content of the meal and make it a healthier option. It is also possible to reduce the salt content by using less salt when cooking, or omitting it altogether.
Conclusion
Chip shop fish and chips can be high in fat and salt, but there are ways to make it a healthier meal. By using healthier cooking methods and reducing the salt content, it is possible to reduce the health risks associated with eating chip shop fish and chips. However, it is important to remember that this should not be eaten too often, as it is still a high-fat, high-salt meal.