A common notion says that the fresher the food, the healthier and more nutritious it is. Do you also share the same belief? Of course, some people have different perspectives about it. Still, there’s no doubt that fresh foods have many essential vitamins and minerals needed to keep one’s body fit and healthy. But does this mean frozen food has lesser nutrients? Not at all.
Aside from having a longer shelf life, many believe that frozen fruits and veggies are as nutritious as fresh produce. Another good thing about frozen products is that you don’t have to worry about your fruits and veggies losing their nutritional value. Since they’re frozen, you can keep all the good stuff for longer.
Suppose you still have second thoughts about buying frozen fruits and veggies. In that case, you can browse through reliable online sources where you can get more info or seek help from registered dieticians.
Advantages Of Buying Frozen Fruits And Veggies
Contrary to the belief that frozen products have fewer nutrients compared to fresh produce, many believe the former has similar nutritional value as the latter. Aside from this fact, frozen products also have a longer shelf life and are easier to consume. Whether peeled, chopped, or blanched, you can quickly grab one of these products and take it on your way to work or home.
Apart from that, here are five reasons frozen fruits and veggies are good for your health and wellness:
- Similar Nutritional Value
Many experts believe that fresh produce and frozen fruits and vegetables are almost the same in terms of nutritional value and components. While there might be slight differences in their dietary components, it doesn’t create much impact on the body once consumed. For instance, some fresh foods may have higher levels of nutrients than frozen products and vice versa.
If you still have doubts, one good thing about buying frozen foods is that they retain their vitamins and minerals longer than fresh products. It’s because fresh fruits and veggies may lose their peak ripeness hours after harvest. But with frozen products, you can grab them from the nearest grocery stores and markets in their best condition. Lastly, their nutritional value is still intact, and there’s no change in the levels of carbohydrates, protein, and other nutrients.
- Prolonged Freshness
Just because they’re frozen doesn’t mean chilled products aren’t fresh anymore. Instead, freezing could help preserve the food’s attributes and nutrients, retaining their freshness for extended periods. Not only that, but you can also have your food ready and available for consumption anytime you want.
Regarding preparation and packaging, some producers blanch veggies before freezing to prevent enzymatic browning. It refers to the condition where the fruits start to brown due to various factors like being squashed, sliced, or peeled. By purchasing frozen fruits and veggies, you can maintain the nutritional value of your food and avoid enzymatic browning.
- No Added Preservatives
Although fruits and vegetables are intrinsically nutritious, not all of them retain their attributes after harvest, especially after undergoing a series of chemical processes. Some of them may have additional levels of saturated fat, added sugar, and salt. So, checking the ingredients list is always best to avoid such added preservatives.
Suppose you’re looking for a more efficient way to preserve food without resorting to canning or dying. In that case, you can consider freezing them or buying frozen products. This alternative is healthier since it doesn’t require preservatives or additional ingredients added to frozen fruits and veggies.
Just a tip, always check the labels of commercially frozen products. That way, you ensure they’re free of artificial salt, sugar, or other preservatives that might be detrimental to your health. Additionally, choosing products with higher levels of vitamins, nutrients, and mineral content is better to ensure optimal health and wellness.
- Cheaper Alternative
Most fruits are planted and harvested in specific seasons, making it harder to have them during regular days. Specifically, frozen produce is much cheaper than its fresh counterparts, especially during their season. Due to this reason, it’s best to freeze fresh produce to have them readily available anytime you need them. Again, you can do this when fruits are in season and cheaper.
Besides saving more money, you can also avoid the hassle of searching for out-of-season fruits and veggies, which can be a bit more expensive. Lastly, you can ensure minimal wastage and preserve them for longer.
- Easier To Prepare And Convenient
Another good reason frozen products are better for you is that you don’t have to exert much effort preparing them. Since fruits and veggies are already frozen, you’ll only have to wash them a bit, and you can eat them immediately. Widely known for their convenience, most frozen products don’t require peeling, chopping, or washing. Instead, they’re easier to prepare and promote minimal wastage.
But if you’re dealing with food you need to thaw, the easiest way to get it done is to place it in leak-proof cellophane or plastic bag. You can then submerge it in cold water until it reaches room temperature. Companies like Lifes Smoothe even sell pre-packaged frozen fruits and vegetables to blend into flavorful smoothies or eat as snacks. That way, you don’t need to transfer them to other containers that can take up space in your freezer.
Final Thoughts
Fresh produce could benefit you in many ways, and there’s no doubt that these products are nutritious. But, taking frozen products doesn’t fall short of keeping your body fit and healthy, aside from being a cheaper and more convenient alternative. First, it allows you to preserve food and prolong its shelf life. Aside from that, frozen produce is also more cost-effective compared to fresh products. Frozen products also make for easier consumption since they’re readily available and convenient for any lifestyle. Plus, frozen veggies are easier to cook, making them an efficient and convenient option for a healthy meal for busy people. By incorporating frozen fruits and veggies into your diet, you can effectively keep your body in good condition and promote your nutrition amidst your busy schedules.