Experts Identify Healthiest Street Food Options in Mexico

Mexico City, Mexico — Street food is a cornerstone of Mexico’s culinary culture, especially in major cities like the capital, where thousands rely on it daily for work. While often associated with high fat or low nutrition, experts from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) have identified options that can fit into a balanced diet when chosen wisely.

Nutrition specialists evaluated traditional Mexican snacks and found many contain natural ingredients, provide energy, and offer a proper balance of macronutrients. This makes them viable alternatives for those who regularly eat out due to time or work constraints.

Top-Rated Street Foods

Among the highest-rated dishes are tacos de guisado, provided they aren’t excessively fried. Those made with vegetables, nopales, eggs, or lean meats deliver protein, carbohydrates, and fiber, and offer greater satiety compared to ultra-processed products.

Another favorable option is tlacoyos made with blue or white corn masa, especially when filled with beans or fava beans. Cooked on a griddle and paired with nopales, natural salsa, and moderate cheese, they represent a nutritious choice. Nixtamalized corn provides calcium and energy, while legumes contribute plant-based protein.

Elote and esquites also rank as street foods that can be part of a balanced diet. Experts recommend consuming them without excess mayonnaise, butter, or dressings. Corn offers complex carbohydrates and fiber, important for bodily functions.

Additionally, chopped fruit and dishes with fresh vegetables, like griddle-cooked quesadillas filled with squash blossoms, mushrooms, or huitlacoche, are considered advisable options. Specialists emphasize their nutritional value remains intact when oil or deep-frying is limited.

Hygiene and Consumption Tips

Beyond food type, UNAM experts stress the importance of checking hygiene at street food stalls. They recommend observing clean surfaces, protected food, and proper utensil use by preparers.

They also suggest moderating fried food intake, avoiding sodas and high-sugar drinks, and opting for natural waters without added sweeteners. Eating slowly, controlling portion sizes, and reducing sauces or dressings help minimize health risks.

The specialists conclude that eating street food doesn’t necessarily mean an unhealthy diet. By making informed choices and paying attention to preparation, it’s possible to enjoy traditional Mexican snacks without compromising physical well-being.