If it can be grilled, deep fried, put on a stick or drizzled in chocolate sauce, you’ll probably find it at The Fair. And while most nutritionists will tell you throwing dietary caution to the wind for just one day at the PNE won't set you back too much, if you wade through the crowds you will find some healthy options.
Nutritionist Maria Thomas says the fresh fruit and vegetable stand is a good choice,or look for skewered meats and tacos.
“It's that 80-20 rule. You want to make sure that ideally you add lots of good stuff to your diet the majority of the time and enjoy. Food is meant to be fun," said Thomas.
Even some of the more unique fair foods make the healthy alternative list. A new food truck, called Gourmet Burgers, is offering kangaroo and camel sliders, along with crocodile, venison and wild boar.
"Kangaroo and camel are all leaner than if you had a beef burger," said Thomas.
But for those looking for the fair classics – there are plenty of deep fried foods on hand.
This year’s favourites include deep fried pickles, green beans and Oreos. You won't have to walk far to satisfy a craving for deep fried butter, cheesecake and made-to-order deep fried pies.
They’re perhaps not the healthiest option, but are a PNE tradition for many.
"Once in awhile a little deep fried food is okay. Just don't think of the pickle as your vegetable!” said Thomas.
