Canned foods often seem like a no-brainer when you’re trying to stick to a budget. They’re convenient, have a long shelf life, and often cost less than fresh or frozen options. But not every canned item is actually a smart buy, even if it looks like a great deal on the surface.
Knowing which canned foods might not give you the value you expect can save you money and prevent waste. While some options are affordable and nutritious, others come with hidden costs or lower quality that make them less budget-friendly than you might think.
Canned Creamed Corn – high in sugar and low in nutrients
When you reach for canned creamed corn, keep in mind it often contains added sugars. This can make it less healthy than fresh or homemade options.
The canning process can also reduce some nutrients, leaving you with more empty calories. Plus, many brands add sodium, which can add up if you eat it regularly.
If you want to keep it healthier, look for low-sodium and no-sugar-added varieties. Pairing it with fresh veggies can help balance your meal without overdoing the sugars.
Canned Fruit in Heavy Syrup – adds unnecessary calories
When you grab canned fruit in heavy syrup, you’re also getting a big dose of added sugar. This sugar boosts the calorie count without adding any real nutritional value.
If you’re watching your calories or sugar intake, this can quickly add up. Fruits packed in their own juice or water are a better pick since they keep the natural sweetness without the extra sugar.
Rinsing canned fruit can help cut some of the syrup off, but it’s still best to check labels and go for options with less or no added sugars.
Canned Ravioli – often packed with sodium and preservatives
If you grab a can of ravioli, you should check the label first. These meals often have a lot of sodium, which can add up quickly if you eat them frequently.
Besides salt, preservatives are common in canned ravioli to keep it shelf-stable. While this helps it last longer, it’s not the best for your health if you rely on it too much.
The noodles tend to be soft and mushy, which might not be the texture you want. Adding fresh ingredients could help boost flavor and nutrition when you do open a can.
Canned Chicken Nuggets – processed with fillers and low quality meat
When you grab canned chicken nuggets, you might think you’re getting a quick protein fix. But many of these products use fillers and lower-quality meat instead of real chicken.
That means your nuggets could end up being mostly processed bits with added binders instead of actual chicken chunks.
If you want better quality, you’ll need to read the labels carefully or look for brands that stick to simple, real ingredients. Otherwise, you might be paying for something that’s not really chicken at all.
Canned Soups with Cream Bases – loaded with fats and additives
If you’re reaching for canned soups with a cream base, be aware they often pack more fat than broth-based options. These soups can also contain additives to improve texture and flavor, which might not be what you want in a quick meal.
You might think they’re convenient, but many cream-based canned soups come loaded with saturated fats and sodium. These ingredients can add up, especially if you eat them regularly.
Choosing soups with clearer labels and fewer additives will give you a healthier option. When in doubt, reading nutrition facts helps you avoid unnecessary fats and artificial ingredients.