Many people incorrectly think that frozen fruits and vegetables are unhealthy because they are frozen, but that may not be the case. Frozen fruits and vegetables are good because the produce is harvested when nutrient levels are at their highest, and they are flash frozen shortly after reaping, which means that they are full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Freezing the produce seals in many of their nutrients; freezing does not destroy produce’s nutrients. In addition, frozen fruit also goes well in smoothies and make great fruit popsicles.

Conversely, Fresh produce looks amazing and smells really good, but with fresh produce, the minutes it is picked, the vegetables and fruits lose nutrients. Not only that, but much of the produce in the supermarket is from other countries like Mexico and Brazil, so it has to travel a long distance before it makes it to the self in the grocery store, more than likely a week or. As a result, the fresh fruit and vegetables may have been harvested before it reached its peak nutritional level, and then artificially ripen during transport.

Another benefit with frozen produce is that one can get their favorite fruits and vegetables, even when they are out of season. Furthermore, studies have found that frozen produce holds on to more beneficial nutrients, than fresh fruits and vegetables. After one week, broccoli that was fresh lost 50 percent of it vitamin C. However, after one year, frozen broccoli lost only 10 percent of its vitamin C, and retained higher levels of antioxidants, including polyphenols, anthocyanin, lutein, and beta-carotene.  Frozen produce is also good because you can buy a lot of it at once, and that will help to increase your intake of fruits and vegetables because you do not have to worry about them spoiling.

While frozen fruits and vegetables tend to be healthier, overall, than produce that is picked and allowed to sit for a while, it is also frozen and takes time to defrost. In contrast fresh produce is ready to be consumed immediately. However, frozen produce is less expensive and available even when your fresh fruits and vegetables are out of season. Also, many people like to use frozen mango cubes or strawberries in their room temperature wine, or juice, and sometimes in water to give it a little flavor. No matter if you decide to buy frozen or fresh produce, both are good for you because they are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber that provides protection for your body and fight cancer. I recommend buying both fresh and frozen produce so you can get the best of both Worlds.