What is the Best Way to Eat Fruits and Vegetables – Fresh, Frozen or Canned?

Everyone says to eat more fruits and vegetables. However, when someone says this the first thing that comes to our mind is fresh products. But what about the frozen or canned versions? Are frozen and canned fruits and vegetables good? One thing is sure fresh vegetables and fruits would never be seen as unhealthy. Believe it or not, there are certain circumstances where canned and frozen might offer more health benefits in comparison to fresh ones. We need to take a closer look at things in order to understand them.

Study

One study examined the cost and nutritional differences between fresh, canned, and frozen vegetables and fruits. This study was published in the Eating Well. This particular study examined 10 common fruits and 8 common vegetables which may be found in all 3 forms. As a matter of fact, the researchers came to the discovery that most nutrients were actually preserved in canned vegetables and fruits. One interesting fact is that certain nutrients were found in bigger quantities in canned items. For example, canned tomatoes have more lycopene and B vitamins in comparison to their fresh counterparts. Some canned vegetables, for example, beans, have more soluble fiber. This is shown to lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels and boost digestive health. Also when it comes to the cost differences, canned products are much less expensive in comparison to frozen or fresh products. But, there is more to this. Often the canned fruits have added sugar, while the other hand, the canned vegetables might have high sodium levels. Furthermore, canned vegetables and fruits might not cause lasting fullness in comparison to their fresh equivalents. However, we need to take a look at everything. There is a concern that BPA, i.e., bisphenol A, which is a chemical in the plastic lining of the cans might cause the development of certain conditions such as reproductive dysfunction, type 2 diabetes, etc. What’s the general opinion on frozen and canned vegetables and fruits? Do most people find it easier to cook with fresh, canned, or frozen products?