Thanksgiving is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and, of course, indulging in delicious food. While preparing a Thanksgiving feast from scratch can be rewarding, many people turn to premade products to save time. If you’re using ready-made items like pumpkin pie, cranberry sauce, or stuffing, it's essential to know what ingredients to avoid to ensure the meal is safe and enjoyable for everyone.
At Trash Panda, we’re committed to helping you make informed, healthier choices for you and your family. Here’s a guide to help you make informed choices, avoid harmful additives, and keep your holiday dinner stress-free.
Don't forget to check out our full Thanksgiving Dinner shopping list for more inspiration!
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Here are some ingredients to be on the lookout for when buying Thanksgiving food products:
High Fructose Corn Syrup: High fructose corn syrup is considered harmful due to its potential to contribute to insulin resistance, metabolic issues, and disruptions in appetite regulation. If you want the rundown on HFCS, check out this blog post!
Partially Hydrogenated Oils: These trans fats can raise bad cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
Artificial Flavorings and Colorings: These additives can have potential health risks and no nutritional value.
Here are some better alternatives for common store-bought Thanksgiving dishes
Healthier Cranberry Sauce
Whole Foods Market Jellied Cranberry Sauce stands out as a healthier option due to its commitment to organic, natural ingredients. Made with organic cranberries, organic cane sugar, and water, it avoids the artificial additives and preservatives commonly found in other brands. Ocean Spray’s Jellied Cranberry Sauce, for instance, contains high-fructose corn syrup and processed ingredients, which contribute to a higher sugar content and less nutritional value. For a cleaner and more wholesome cranberry sauce, Whole Foods delivers a choice you can feel good about serving.
Healthier Stuffing
When comparing stuffing mixes, ASDA’s Roasted Garlic, Sage, and Red Onion Stuffing offers a cleaner and more natural alternative. This mix emphasizes the use of roasted garlic, fragrant sage, and red onion, avoiding the highly processed ingredients often found in products like Stove Top Stuffing Mix for Turkey Dressing. In contrast, Stove Top relies on enriched wheat flour, high sodium levels, and artificial flavorings. By focusing on simple, high-quality ingredients, ASDA’s stuffing ensures a flavorful, healthier addition to your holiday spread.
Healthier Pumpkin Pie
For a dessert that combines flavor with simplicity, Wholly Wholesome Pumpkin Pie is a standout. Unlike King Soopers Bakery Fresh Pumpkin Pie, which often includes preservatives and artificial flavors, Wholly Wholesome prioritizes natural ingredients without unnecessary additives. This dedication to quality results in a dessert that feels homemade and authentically delicious. If you're looking for a pumpkin pie that aligns with healthier, more mindful eating habits, Wholly Wholesome delivers a dessert that’s both indulgent and wholesome.
Looking for more? We've got a whole list of Thanksgiving favorites available in the Trash Panda App.
This Thanksgiving, focus on creating meals that are both wholesome and delicious by choosing options made with natural, high-quality ingredients. Prioritizing healthier choices doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor—it’s about finding the perfect balance to nourish both body and spirit.
The Trash Panda App is here to guide you in discovering products that support your values and enhance your holiday table. Make this season one of mindful and flavorful celebration with Trash Panda!