Five Amazing Benefits of Frozen Vegetables We Bet You Don't Know About

There is a common misconception that fresh produce is healthier than frozen produce (which in most cases is cheaper than fresh produce). However, studies show that frozen fruit and vegetables are often (though not ALWAYS) healthier than fresh produce on shelves in grocery stores. Whether you are following the Whole 30 diet or making your own baby food, you want to know what your healthiest options are when it comes to shopping for fruit and veg. Let’s have a look at some of the facts on why it may be better to buy frozen produce.

Are frozen vegetables healthy: What are the benefits?

Fresh produce destined for the freezer is usually picked at optimal ripeness and then snap-frozen within hours. In this way, these foods can maintain maximum nutrient levels. Here are a few more benefits of choosing frozen vegetables and fruit over fresh.

1. Frozen fruit and veggies are more widely available out of season.
2. Fruit and veggies available at your supermarket out of their natural season have usually been sitting in cold storage for a long time (up to a year). All the while losing valuable nutrition. In addition, this produce often has to travel from far-flung places. Not ideal for the environment or your local economy.
3. Frozen produce is typically more affordable than its fresh counterparts.
4. Not only do you save when you first pop those items in your cart. You can win in other ways too by wasting less food. Because frozen vegetables have a longer shelf life, there is less wastage. Good for your budget and for zero-waste living.
5. Frozen vegetables are usually quicker and easier to prepare.

Fresh vs. frozen fruit: Are nutrients lost in the freezing process?

Freezing impacts fruits and vegetables and their nutritional value differently. Generally, macronutrients like carbohydrates, fats, and proteins are minimally impacted by the freezing process. The effects of freezing on micronutrients like vitamin A, B vitamins, and vitamin C vary from product to product. This 2017 study showed that frozen produce generally outperformed fresh produce in nutrient retention. Another study revealed that the loss of nutrients during the storage and cooking of fresh produce may be greater than that of frozen and canned goods.

Tips for making the most of your frozen vegetables

Are frozen vegetables good for you? Frozen vegetables can be just as nutritious as their fresh counterparts. Follow these helpful tips to make the most of your frozen veg.

• When shopping for frozen fruit and veggies, check the ingredients to ensure there are no additives (salt, sugar, sauces) that would compromise the nutritional value of the food.
• The method you use to cook your food, fresh or frozen, impacts its nutritional content. Roasting, steaming, or stir-frying are better options than boiling and blanching.
• Frozen fruit and vegetables may lose nutrients during an extended storage time. Ideally, you should consume these foods within 8 months to a year of purchase.

Fresh vs. frozen vegetables and fruit 

The only wrong way to eat your fruit and vegetables is to not eat enough! By combining the convenience and affordability of frozen vegetables and fruit with the more visually appealing fresh versions, you can have the best of both worlds and be sure to cover your bases when it comes to nutrient intake. The next time you go shopping, be sure to check out Save.com’s coupon book finder to see if it delivers to your area and get great deals on your grocery items.