Indian takeaway has more calories than daily allowance

In a new study, health chiefs have warned that the standard Indian takeaway can contain enough food for two people.

In general, such meals included a starter, such as an onion bhaji, a main course, such as a chicken korma or tikka masala, served alongside pilau rice and a naan bread.

Experts said that traditional Indian food is healthy, but a study of 280 takeaway samples from 36 outlets across the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland revealed that they contained far more than an adult's recommended daily calorie intake.

Researchers at the University of Ulster found that the average portion of peshwari naan bread contained 748 calories, while an average dish of tikka masala main course harboured 1,249 calories. The starters which were tested contained one third of an adult's total daily amount of salt. Rice portions, meanwhile, were in general large enough for two people.

Cliodhna Foley-Nolan, director of human health and nutrition with the Safefood group, said that while traditional meals in India are low in fat, high in fibre and rich in fruit and vegetables, chefs here have adapted their recipes to suit local taste buds favouring foods high in fat and salt and serving bigger portions.