Bollywood actress and Member of Parliament Kangana Ranaut has never shied away from voicing her opinions, and this time, she has taken a stand against the increasing dependence on food delivery services in India. As she unveiled her new restaurant, The Mountain Story, in the picturesque Himalayas, Ranaut shared her concerns about how modern lifestyles are steering people away from traditional and indigenous cuisines. She emphasised the importance of preserving ancestral culinary knowledge and expressed her disapproval of the growing trend of ordering food online rather than preparing meals at home.
While convenience plays a major role in the rise of food delivery culture, experts warn that frequent consumption of takeout meals can have significant health risks. From excessive calorie intake to hidden preservatives, eating outside food regularly can negatively impact overall well-being.
Kangana Ranaut on Preserving Culinary Heritage
In a recent interview, Ranaut lamented how modern generations are losing touch with traditional food practices. She pointed out that every region in India once had its unique cooking techniques and flavors, passed down through generations. However, with the advent of quick-commerce apps and instant food deliveries, people are moving away from the practice of home cooking.
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Referring to past generations, Ranaut noted that women in earlier times were skilled at preserving food, making pickles, and preparing meals without modern conveniences. She expressed her desire to learn traditional methods of making butter and ghee, highlighting the importance of sustaining such knowledge instead of replacing it with the convenience of takeout.
The Health Hazards of Frequent Takeout Meals
While food delivery apps provide easy access to a variety of cuisines at the tap of a button, their impact on health cannot be ignored. Most commercially prepared meals are designed to be flavorful and visually appealing rather than nutritionally balanced. Here are some key concerns associated with excessive consumption of restaurant food:
High Calorie and Sodium Intake
Most takeout meals contain excessive amounts of calories and sodium, which can lead to high blood pressure, water retention, and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Many dishes use refined ingredients, artificial flavor enhancers, and preservatives that can contribute to long-term health issues.
Unhealthy Fats and Cooking Methods
Fast food and restaurant meals often contain trans fats and unhealthy cooking oils that elevate cholesterol levels and increase the risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Additionally, deep-fried and processed foods can trigger inflammation in the body, leading to metabolic disorders.
Portion Control Issues
Restaurant portions are typically much larger than recommended serving sizes, making it easy to overeat. Consuming large portions regularly can distort one’s perception of how much food is necessary, leading to unhealthy eating habits and gradual weight gain.
The Benefits of Home-Cooked Meals
Nutritionists and health experts advocate for preparing meals at home as often as possible. Cooking at home allows individuals to control ingredients, reduce unhealthy additives, and ensure a balanced intake of essential nutrients. Here are some benefits of home-cooked food:
- Better Nutritional Quality: Homemade meals contain more fiber, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats compared to restaurant food.
- Healthier Cooking Techniques: Steaming, grilling, baking, and sautéing with minimal oil help preserve the nutritional value of ingredients.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Preparing food at home is significantly cheaper than frequently ordering from restaurants.
- Improved Digestion and Gut Health: Fresh ingredients and the absence of preservatives promote better digestion and overall gut health.
Bottomline
While ordering takeout is sometimes inevitable, experts suggest limiting it to occasional indulgences rather than making it a daily habit. Prioritising home-cooked meals can enhance overall well-being and reduce the risk of lifestyle-related diseases. If you do choose to eat out, opting for healthier alternatives and mindful portion control can help mitigate some of the risks.
As Kangana Ranaut highlights, reviving traditional cooking practices is not just about preserving cultural heritage—it’s also about making healthier choices for a better future.