Many people ask whether fresh fruits and vegetables are better than frozen ones, in terms of being healthier.
The truth is that fresh fruits and vegetables are full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, all of which can improve health. In addition to that, eating more fruits and vegetables may even help protect against heart disease.
Fresh produce may not always be available, and frozen varieties are a convenient alternative.However, their nutritional value may differ.
Harvest, Processing and Transportation
Most of the fruits and vegetables you buy are harvested by hand, with a smaller amount being harvested by machinery. However, what happens after that varies between fresh and frozen produce.
Fresh Fruit and Vegetables
Most fresh fruits and vegetables are picked before they are ripe. This allows them time to fully ripen during transportation.
It also gives them less time to develop a full range of vitamins, minerals and natural antioxidants.
In the US, fruits and vegetables may spend anywhere from 3 days to several weeks in transit before arriving at a distribution center.