Lidl launched a drinkable instant meal.
A new product appeared in Lidl’s assortment in the fall, which aims to serve busy people. That is, those people who don’t have time to eat a proper meal.
It is a Food in a Bottle meal replacement drink. According to Lidl’s communication, the drink in question should not be equated with low-energy meal replacements or protein drinks used for weight loss.
One Food in a Bottle bottle contains about 500 kilocalories of energy, or the equivalent of a meal, and it contains about 35 grams of protein, 9 grams of dietary fiber and 35 grams of carbohydrates. In addition, the product has 26 added vitamins or minerals.
We asked Marttoten’s nutritionist From Niina Silanderwhat he thinks about the product. Is it worth replacing the actual meal with a substitute drink in a hurry?
– Meals should not be replaced or skipped. Rushing is everyday life for many, so even meal replacement easily becomes a habit if you always resort to it when you’re in a hurry, says Silander.
– However, a single food choice never makes a diet healthy or unhealthy, so a meal replacement can also be useful in an exceptional situation where, for one reason or another, you don’t have time to eat a full meal, says Silander.
– In these moments, it is better to choose to eat something than not to eat at all.
Other quick solutions
When used occasionally, meal replacements can therefore fit into a versatile diet. However, they are not the only fast option available.
– For busy everyday life, I recommend taking advantage of workplace or school meals, where you can choose a variety of vegetables, a warm meal and whole grain bread from the menu, advises Silander.
– As another option, you can look for ready meals with a heart symbol, which can be supplemented with fruit and whole grain bread.
Even though the composition of the alternative drink may sound healthy, in Silander’s opinion, healthy eating is different. The key to it is in versatility, emphasis on vegetables and regularity.
– A diet that contains plenty of vegetables, berries and fruits, whole grains, fish and unsaturated fats offers not only the necessary nutrients but also joy, taste sensations, new experiences and opportunities for making and eating together, he says.
– Therefore, when used regularly, a meal replacement is not in accordance with nutritional recommendations or a recommended option.
Instead of relying on substitutes, Silander wants to encourage people to set aside time for eating and preparing food and to take care of the meal rhythm. Enjoying full-weight meals is part of both self-care and everyday well-being.
– Food is not only fuel, but also a meaningful part of our lives: a moment to relax, gather energy and socialize.