Low Sodium Frozen Meals: Frozen meals often boast high sodium content, constituting approximately 70% of the sodium intake in the United States from prepackaged, processed, and restaurant foods. Sodium not only enhances flavor but also serves to preserve freshness and improve the overall texture and appearance of these meals.
While frozen meals aren’t the ideal choice for a well-rounded, nutritious diet, they provide a convenient option for time-strapped individuals. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests selecting prepared meals with less than 600 milligrams (mg) of sodium per serving to meet the criteria for a “healthy” label.
Despite the multitude of options available, discovering tasty, low-sodium choices in the grocery store can prove challenging.
Explore these 7 brands renowned for offering microwave-friendly meals that prioritize both nutrition and low sodium content.
Also Read: Delicious and Nutritious 700-Calorie Meals for a Healthy Lifestyle
Who Can Gain From Low Sodium Frozen Meals
On average, individuals in the United States are estimated to ingest approximately 3,400 mg of sodium daily, a quantity notably surpassing the recommended levels set by health organizations such as the American Heart Association (AHA).
The AHA suggests limiting sodium intake to less than 2,300 mg per day, with an even more favorable target of ideally staying below 1,500 mg per day. This advice is particularly pertinent for those dealing with high blood pressure and heart disease, as a low sodium diet is frequently prescribed for such conditions.
Remarkably, the AHA asserts that a reduction of just 1,000 mg in daily sodium intake could yield significant improvements in blood pressure and overall heart health for the majority of individuals. Additionally, adopting a low sodium diet may prove advantageous for managing various health conditions, including chronic kidney disease.
Also Read: Healthy 2100 Calorie Meal Plan
How we chose Low Sodium Frozen Meals
The brands highlighted in this article were carefully chosen based on specific criteria:
1. Variety: We focused on brands that offer a diverse range of meals, catering to various dietary preferences and needs.
2. Ingredient Quality: Our selection includes brands that prioritize high-quality ingredients, often opting for organic choices and steering clear of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
3. Price: We considered brands that provide meals across a spectrum of price points, ensuring options that align with nearly any budget.
4. Sodium Content: The chosen brands emphasize meals with a sodium content of less than 600 mg per serving, promoting healthier choices for consumers.
5. Vetting: Our team of experts, responsible for evaluating each company’s business practices and reputation, as well as verifying the credibility of any medical claims, has rigorously vetted all the brands featured in our list.
List of best low sodium frozen meals
Best overall (Magic Kitchen)
Magic Kitchen stands out as a meal delivery service specializing in frozen, fully prepared meals designed to cater to diverse dietary needs. Distinguishing itself, the service boasts an extensive selection of low sodium meals, each containing less than 700 mg of sodium, with the majority clocking in at 500 mg or less.
Also Read: How to Follow 2200 Calorie Meal Plan
Beyond their focus on low sodium offerings, Magic Kitchen extends its appeal by providing meal plans that accommodate various dietary requirements, ensuring a broad spectrum of options for their clientele.
- Senior Meals
- Portion Controlled
- Diabetic-Friendly
- Dairy-Free
- Low Carbohydrate
- Low Fat
- Renal Diet
- Dialysis-Friendly
- Vegetarian
Magic Kitchen presents a selection of enticing low sodium meals, showcasing their commitment to health-conscious options. A few noteworthy examples from their menu include:
1. Turkey Chili with Brown Rice: Remarkably low at just 170 mg of sodium.
2. Lemon Pepper Fish with Roasted Potatoes and Okra & Stewed Tomatoes: A flavorful combination with a modest 330 mg of sodium.
3. Fried Egg Patties, Sweet Potatoes & Asparagus: A delightful dish featuring only 240 mg of sodium.
For those considering these menu-complete low sodium meals, prices typically fall within the range of $11–$15 per serving. Shipping is conveniently available throughout the continental United States, starting at $18.95.
Amy’s Kitchen (Best Organic)
Amy’s Kitchen is a renowned company presenting a diverse selection of more than 250 frozen meals that are vegetarian-friendly, with a significant portion being organic. As stated on their website, the company proudly excludes genetically modified organisms (GMOs) from their products and strives to incorporate as many organic ingredients as feasible.
Alongside their commitment to vegetarian options, Amy’s Kitchen caters to various dietary preferences by offering an array of vegan, gluten-free, and kosher products. Notably, a considerable number of their meals boast low sodium levels, aligning with health-conscious choices.
Also Read: Lose Weight with a 900-Calorie Meal Plan Effectively Fast and Easy
To further accommodate those mindful of sodium intake, Amy’s Kitchen provides “light in sodium” versions for some of their popular items, extending their commitment to diverse and health-conscious offerings.
Among their low sodium options are:
1. Mexican Casserole Bowl, Light in Sodium: Containing only 370 mg of sodium
2. Organic Roasted Vegetable Pizza, Vegan: With a sodium content of 540 mg
3. Tofu Scramble Breakfast Wrap: A breakfast choice with a modest 420 mg of sodium
However, it’s crucial to diligently review the nutrition labels of meals, as certain items may have higher sodium levels. Prices for these offerings may fluctuate based on the specific item and the retailer, generally falling within the range of $3–$7 per serving.
Healthy Choice (Best Budget)
Healthy Choice takes pride in crafting top-notch frozen meals distinguished by their commitment to excluding artificial ingredients. Their offerings span a diverse range, featuring low carb, grain-free, gluten-free, and high protein options, complemented by a variety of vegan- and vegetarian-friendly choices.
Notably, the brand asserts adherence to federal guidelines for fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium. A significant majority of their meals contain less than 600 mg of sodium per serving, aligning with their dedication to providing health-conscious options for consumers.
Healthy Choice presents a selection of low sodium options that exemplify their dedication to healthier meal choices:
1. Simply Steamers, Grilled Chicken Marsala: With just 460 mg of sodium.
2. Power Bowls, Cauliflower Curry: A flavorful option containing 400 mg of sodium.
3. Cafe Steamers, Honey Glazed Turkey & Potatoes: Another delectable choice with a modest 400 mg of sodium.
Beyond their health-conscious offerings, Healthy Choice stands out as one of the more budget-friendly frozen meal companies in the market. While prices may vary based on location, the majority of their items typically range between $3–$5 per serving, making wholesome and affordable meals accessible to a wide range of consumers.
Lean Cuisine (Best low calorie)
Lean Cuisine has earned its popularity as a leading frozen meal company, celebrated for its array of low-calorie, portion-controlled entrées encompassing bowls, pizzas, pastas, and sandwiches. With a diverse menu of over 50 frozen meals, Lean Cuisine caters to various dietary preferences, offering options that are high in protein, carb-conscious, gluten-free, or meatless.
Notably, the company’s commitment to heart health is evident through four entrées that are proudly “Heart-Check Certified,” signifying adherence to the American Heart Association’s standards for heart-healthy foods, with each serving containing less than 600 mg of sodium.
Lean Cuisine proudly features a selection of heart-healthy options that showcase their commitment to balanced and flavorful choices:
1. Apple Cranberry Chicken: Offering a heart-healthy option with just 510 mg of sodium.
2. Butternut Squash Ravioli: Another savory choice, thoughtfully crafted with 570 mg of sodium.
3. Garlic Sesame Asian-Style Noodles with Beef: A delightful blend with a modest 510 mg of sodium.
It’s worth noting that many items on their regular menu also maintain lower sodium levels. However, it’s advisable to scrutinize the nutrition label for each entrée, ensuring awareness of the sodium content, as some options may have higher levels. In terms of affordability, Lean Cuisine meals are typically priced between $2–$6 at most grocery stores, although prices may vary based on your location. This makes their nutritious and convenient options accessible to a wide range of consumers.
Saffron Road (Best gluten-free)
Saffron Road takes pride in crafting frozen meals that celebrate the rich flavors of global cuisines while maintaining a focus on nutrition and taste. Their commitment to quality is evident as their frozen offerings are free from GMOs, artificial ingredients, and hormones.
Notably, every frozen entrée is certified gluten-free, showcasing a dedication to dietary inclusivity. Adding to their versatility, many of these entrees cater to diverse preferences, with options available for those following vegan or vegetarian diets.
Additionally, Saffron Road embraces cultural diversity by providing meals that are certified halal, further ensuring a wide range of choices that align with various dietary and cultural considerations.
While not all of Saffron Road’s meals boast low sodium content, there are heart-healthy options to consider, such as:
1. Lemongrass Basil Chicken: Offering a flavorful choice with 540 mg of sodium.
2. Vegetable Pad Thai: A delightful option with a sodium content of 600 mg.
3. Butter Chicken: Adding richness to the heart-healthy selection with 520 mg of sodium.
Beyond their frozen meal selection, Saffron Road expands its offerings to include simmer sauces, meal pouches, and crunchy chickpea snacks. The affordability of these meals is another noteworthy aspect, with each typically priced around $6-$7 per serving, though prices may vary based on location. This makes Saffron Road’s diverse and health-conscious choices accessible to a wide range of consumers.
Tattooed Chef (Best vegan)
Tattooed Chef presents a diverse array of plant-based frozen meals, encompassing an enticing selection of bowls, burritos, pizzas, and pasta dishes.
Notably, the entire product line is vegetarian-friendly, with a considerable number also aligning with vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, and grain-free dietary preferences. Emphasizing their commitment to quality, the company highlights the use of organic ingredients, with several of their meals holding the distinction of being certified organic.
Also Read: Simple 14-Day Boiled Egg Diet Plan
This dedication to providing a variety of wholesome and plant-based options reinforces Tattooed Chef’s appeal to individuals with diverse dietary needs and preferences.
The sodium levels in Tattooed Chef’s meals vary, but a substantial number align with a low sodium diet, making them suitable options for health-conscious individuals. Examples of such choices include:
1. Buddha Bowl: A flavorful option with a modest 310 mg of sodium.
2. Chickpea Pasta with Plant-Based Ragu: Offering a satisfying choice with 450 mg of sodium.
3. Veggie Hemp Bowl: A nutrient-packed selection with a minimal 260 mg of sodium.
For those considering these frozen entrées, the general pricing typically falls within the range of $5–$6 per meal, contingent on the shopping location. This affordability factor, coupled with the diverse and health-conscious offerings, enhances the accessibility of Tattooed Chef’s frozen meals to a broad spectrum of consumers.
Sweet Earth (Best vegetarian)
Sweet Earth stands out as a company dedicated to delivering delectable, plant-based meals that are not only rich in flavor but also conveniently fully prepared and ready to savor. Their extensive menu features a diverse range, including bowls, burritos, and pizzas, as well as plant-based alternatives for bacon, seitan, chicken, and deli slices.
A notable feature is the commitment to quality, with all meals crafted from non-GMO ingredients and predominantly using organic components. Catering to various dietary preferences, every product is vegetarian-friendly, and the selection extends to include several vegan options, showcasing Sweet Earth’s versatility in providing tasty and plant-powered choices for a broad audience.
While the sodium content varies among their offerings, Sweet Earth ensures a selection of low-salt options for those mindful of their sodium intake. Examples of such choices include:
1. Cauliflower Mac: A delicious option with a modest 460 mg of sodium.
2. Curry Tiger: A flavorful dish boasting just 360 mg of sodium.
3. Veggie Lover’s Vegan Pizza: A savory pizza alternative with a minimal 330 mg of sodium.
For those considering these delectable options, the general pricing typically hovers around $5–$6 per meal, providing an affordable and tasty choice for a diverse range of consumers.
Low Sodium Frozen Meals Related FAQs –
Q1. How much sodium should be in a frozen meal?
Frozen meals are often criticized for their elevated levels of sodium and saturated fat. According to Taylor, an expert in the field, the least favorable frozen meals surpass 700 grams of sodium and contain 4 to 5 grams of saturated fat.
To make healthier choices, it is advisable to restrict the sodium content in frozen meals to 600 milligrams or less, and limit saturated fat to 3 grams or less. Being mindful of these benchmarks can contribute to a more health-conscious approach when selecting and consuming frozen meals.
Q2. How do you reduce sodium in frozen food?
Regrettably, once salt is incorporated into a frozen meal, removing it becomes a challenging task. Nevertheless, mitigating the saltiness is possible by introducing additional unsalted ingredients like vegetables. Another approach is to serve the meal with a side that boasts low sodium content. These strategies can help balance the overall sodium levels and enhance the overall taste of the frozen meal without compromising on flavor.
Q3. How many mg a day for low sodium Frozen Meal diet?
The majority of medical practitioners agree that people with high blood pressure should consume no more sodium than 2300 mg (2.3 grams) per day. It could be advised to further limit sodium intake to a range of 1500 to 1800 milligrams per day for people with specific medical issues. It is usual practice to tailor salt consumption to certain health issues in order to support general health.
Q4. How much sodium is good for food?
Americans take in about 3,400 mg of sodium per day on average. On the other hand, adults are advised by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans to limit their daily intake of sodium to less than 2,300 mg, or about one teaspoon of table salt. It is noted that youngsters under the age of 14 should adhere to considerably lower recommended limits.
Also Read: 7-Day Cottage Cheese Diet Plan
Disclaimer
This article is purposive for intended general information and does not mark individual circumstances. It is not an alternative to professional advice or help. It should not be relied on to make decisions of any kind. A licensed physician must be consulted to diagnose and treat any medical condition. Any action you take due to the information on this page is entirely at your own risk and responsibility!
