Fresh vegetables are naturally healthy and nutritious. However, buying frozen vegetables, even though more convenient for many, may raise concerns about their nutritional value being the same or declined. Let's compare the two.
Fresh fruits and vegetables are usually harvested just before they ripen completely. Depending on the produce, the transportation and storage time for them may vary.
On the other hand, frozen fruits and vegetables are picked when they are fully ripe. Within some hours, they are washed, blanched, frozen and then packaged.
Blanching involves putting the vegetables into boiling water or steam for a short period. This process may cause the antioxidants, B vitamins, and vitamin C content to be lessened, although the nutrient content remains stable after freezing.
The nutrient loss is generally small in frozen vegetables and is quite similar to that of fresh ones. As certain vegetables and fruits start losing their vitamins after being harvested, vitamin C content in frozen ones may be more than that of the fresh ones sitting at home for several days.
While fresh-picked fruits and vegetables are of the highest quality, frozen ones may be more nutritious in some cases. The best option is to choose some of both so you get proper nutrients!