Fresh Produce Is Always Healthier Than Frozen

Fresh fruits and vegetables are nutritionally superior to their frozen counterparts.

  • The Actual Myth: Fresh fruits and vegetables are nutritionally superior to their frozen counterparts.
  • The Reason it Got Popular: People equate "fresh" with "better" due to marketing and the assumption that freezing diminishes nutrient quality.
  • The Need for Debunking:This myth leads to higher grocery costs, unnecessary waste, and missed opportunities to access nutritious frozen foods.
  • The Time It Originated: The mid-20th century, when industrial freezing technology was relatively new.

The Actual Fact

Frozen produce is often just as nutritious, if not more, than fresh, as it is typically frozen shortly after harvest, preserving peak nutrient levels.

  • The Actual Fact: Frozen produce is often just as nutritious, if not more, than fresh, as it is typically frozen shortly after harvest, preserving peak nutrient levels.
  • The Proofs Behind the Fact:
    1. Nutrient Studies: Research shows frozen spinach and blueberries retain higher vitamin levels than fresh ones stored for several days.
    2. Storage Impact: Fresh produce loses nutrients over time during transport and storage, whereas freezing locks in nutrients.
  • How It Can Benefit Us:
    • Encourages affordable, long-term access to healthy foods.
    • Reduces food waste by promoting freezer storage for surplus produce.

Some Related Facts

  • Canned Foods: Properly canned vegetables can also retain nutrients but may contain added sodium or sugar.
  • Blanching Process: Brief blanching before freezing preserves nutrients but may slightly alter texture.
  • Seasonal Eating: Frozen produce allows people to enjoy out-of-season fruits and vegetables year-round.