You may have resolved to lose weight, eat healthier or just be more aware of what you’re putting in your body this year, but when you combine the challenges of eating clean with the plethora of mystery meats and unclear packaging in Shanghai’s markets and local grocery stores, it can all get complicated very quickly. Luckily, a new healthy eating app is here to help us locate better eateries and communicate special dietary needs.

Written by Shanghai-based registered dietitians, the Eat Well China app (RMB40) is designed especially for China newcomers, offering information about how and where to find healthy food in China. Besides providing names and uses for local produce, tips to avoid getting food poisoning and a few organic recipes, it also has a list of nutritionist-approved restaurants, markets, cooking schools and delivery services in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou.

The aggregated information is helpful for new transplants who have food allergies or travelers that would rather not risk spending the majority of their trip in the restroom. Old China hands or those looking to try rare delicacies may find the lists a bit limited, but provided phrases like “wo bu yao weijing” (“I don’t want MSG”) can be extremely helpful to newcomers. The app has 32 recommended restaurants in Shanghai (including familiar names such as Pho Real, Da Marco and Lost Heaven), all supported by location-based technology so you can find a meal anywhere in town.

Whether you’re wondering if that pork dish contains nuts (chances are it does) or want to try your hand at making vegetarian dumplings, this app will get you up to speed on local cuisine.

DETAILS

What: Eat Well China App

Web: www.eatwellglobal.com

How Much: RMB40

See also:
City Weekend's iPhone App
App Reviews: Chinese-English Dictionaries for iPad
App Review: South China Morning Post for iPad
16 Apps That Will Change Your Shanghai Life