Mixed frozen vegetables and fruits are convenient, inexpensive, and substantially reduce food waste, saving families money. Still, some consumers assume that frozen fruits and veggies are less nutritious than fresh produce. We examined the advantages and disadvantages of frozen vegetables and fruits and looked at any nutritional differences that might make one a better choice. 

Frozen Veggies vs. Fresh Veggies: Are They the Same?

Frozen fruits and vegetables are considered minimally processed and undergo a relatively low-touch process to prepare them for store shelves. While some specific products are handled differently, most are prepared in a few simple steps. 

  1. Blanching—The veggies are partially cooked by dipping them in boiling water or dense, hot steam. This deactivates natural enzymes, kills microbes and bacteria, and removes any lingering dirt after rinsing. 
  2. Flash-freezing — The fruits of veggies are then immediately frozen to lock in nutrients. 
  3. Packaging—The food is then packaged in dense polyurethane bags to minimize oxidation and protect it from the radiation used to heat it in your microwave at home. 
  4. Cold storage — Throughout the supply chain, frozen fruits and veggies are kept well below freezing, usually around -18 degrees Celsius. This prevents thawing and greatly reduces the risk of microbial growth. 

Are Frozen Veggies Good For You?

Yes! Vegetables in their frozen form are just as healthy as fresh, as long as there aren’t any additional ingredients. Some frozen vegetables come seasoned or have other foods like rice, noodles, or a light sauce; in most cases, these foods will have additives and won’t be comparable to fresh produce. And yes, frozen fruit is just as good for you, with the same caveat; be sure to inspect frozen fruit labels for added sugars, flavors, or other additives that may add calories or chemicals. 

Does Frozen Fruit Have Added Sugar?

Some frozen fruit products, especially those designed for smoothie mixes, have added sugar. Always check the label to see if your favorite frozen fruits have added sugar. If so, consider finding a low-sugar or no-sugar alternative. 

Read more: The Connection Between Sugar and Cancer

All Vegetables Are Good Vegetables (Fruit, Too)

Frozen fruits and vegetables are just as nutritious as fresh ones, and it’s important for working families to know this. Frozen options give consumers several advantages in selection, price, and reducing waste. 

Access Out-of-Season Foods 

Freezing fresh in-season produce allows consumers to access those foods during the winter months. Studies show that people who buy frozen produce tend to eat more fruit and vegetables than those who don’t. 

Easy to Prepare

Frozen produce is quick and convenient to prepare, helping families eat more meals at home and eschewing unhealthy and increasingly expensive fast foods. 

More Affordable Than Fresh

In most cases, frozen produce is less expensive than fresh and lasts considerably longer, reducing food waste. The combination of higher affordability and longer storage life makes it a cost-effective option for working families and those looking to fight food waste. 

Education Is Prevention – And It Starts With Diet

It’s critical that American families understand the impact of diet on their overall health. This often means debunking commonly held beliefs about food, and prioritizing healthy, affordable food options whenever possible. Help Less Cancer put education and prevention first; support our cause today.