Frozen fruits and vegetables are better than fresh? You’re kidding, right? That’s really hard to believe. But, it’s true. They last longer and are often more affordable than fresh fruits and vegetables. And, moreover, frozen is as nutritious as fresh according to research by the USDA. Here are five reasons why you may want to stock up on healthy treats while in the frozen food aisle.
Choose Frozen For Great Nutrition
Frozen fruits and veggies are just as nutritious as their fresh counterparts, according to several studies. In addition, they found vitamin content was higher, including broccoli, corn, green beans and blueberries. Furthermore, the freezing process typically keeps the nutrients of freshly picked produce intact, while fresh produce may sit in transport or grocery stores for days, thereby losing nutrients along the way.
Convenience
A recent study found people who buy frozen fruits and veggies consume more produce overall than those who don’t. This finding mirrors what nutritionist Cynthia Sass learns from her own clients, according to her story on Health magazine’s website. “While I’m a big fan of fresh produce, I’m also serious about helping people fit in at least five servings of fruits and veggies per day every day. I’ve found that when my clients keep their freezers stocked they’re much more likely to hit that mark.” Frozen vegetables are usually prewashed and pre-cut, making heating them in the microwave or pan fast and easy.
Affordability
Fresh produce is more expensive, making it less accessible to people. For example, frozen organic spinach costs about 50 cents less than fresh organic spinach, and you get twice the amount. Similarly, a 10-ounce bag of frozen organic raspberries is the same price as six ounces of the fresh fruit.
Smoothies
Frozen fruits and berries make great filler for quick protein drinks during your morning routine. You should also try adding thawed scoops of fruit to oatmeal or yogurt. They’re delicious!
Flexibility
Frozen vegetables last far longer compared to their fresh counterparts. So instead of replenishing your fresh produce supply every few days, you can stretch out the shopping trips and save money. Moreover, fresh vegetables are canned with plenty of added salt as preservative. Remember, you must keep your sodium intake down. Frozen vegetables, on the other hand, are cooked to a very high temperature before being quickly frozen for flavor and color conservation.
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