What is this food?
Corn pudding (maja) with a yellow base and grated coconut topping. It’s a sweet, creamy snack/dessert made mostly from corn and sugar, with coconut adding richness.
Why it matters to health
This food gives quick energy from carbohydrates (about 32.9g per 100g) and some fiber (about 2.2g), which can help with fullness. However, it also has a high saturated fat level (about 1.15g per 100g) and a good amount of sugar (about 16.3g per 100g). The good news is that you can still enjoy it—just keep portions and frequency balanced, especially if you’re having it as a snack between your 3 full meals.
Healthier tips
- Keep it as an occasional snack or dessert, not every day.
- Portion guide: start with a small serving (about 50–75g) and pair it with something that adds protein/fiber (e.g., a small cup of yogurt or a handful of nuts) to improve balance.
- When possible, choose versions with less added sugar or lighter coconut topping.
- Balance your day: if you eat maja for a snack, make sure your next meal has more vegetables and lean protein, and keep rice portions moderate.
- Watch sodium too (it’s low here per 100g, but overall snack combinations can add up).
Common Filipino dishes
Maja blanca, Corn pudding (maja de mais), Biko, Suman, Ginataang mais