When it comes to making a choice between fresh and frozen vegetables, we always pick the fresh one, thinking that it is more healthy and is packed with various nutrients. Even while shopping for grocery we rarely stop by the frozen veggies counter, if the fresh ones are available.
It is assumed that when vegetables and fruits are frozen they lose their nutrition and are unhealthy as compared to the fresh one, right? But you will be amazed to know that some frozen veggies are healthier than the fresh ones.
Frozen vs Fresh
Just because frozen vegetables are cheaper and are available all around the year does not mean that they are not good for health. When Clarence Birdseye invented frozen food in 1923, he tried a lot of things to ensure that the consumers do not have to compromise on the nutrition front. Today with the advancement of technology, you can be assured that the frozen foods are not as bad as you think they are.
If you worry about frozen vegetables losing nutrients, then remember that fresh ones lose them too. In fact, vegetables like green peas, frozen corn and blueberries contain more vitamin C when they are frozen as compared to the fresh ones, revealed a study conducted by the University of Georgia.
Green peas lose half of their vitamin C content in the first 24 hours after being harvested. While veggies are generally frozen at the height of freshness, as a result, their nutrition content remains intact.
In a study conducted by the University of California, the researchers compared the nutrients in eight different fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables (corn, broccoli, spinach, carrots, peas, green beans, strawberries and blueberries) and did not find consistent differences between the two.
Things to take care
The veggies will retain their nutrients only if they are not overcooked. Whether you choose fresh or frozen food vegetables, both have a positive impact on your body. So, next time you go for some vegetable shopping, try to include a mix of fresh and frozen in your diet. If you are opting for a salad, go for fresh ones; use the frozen ones for making soup or curry