It would be difficult to find someone out there who hasn’t at least once been instructed to eat their daily fruits and vegetables!
Whilst we are not here to do the same (well maybe we are, sort of…) our primary aim is to support your decision in choosing the frozen versus the fresh variety. Let's begin with an understanding of the difference:
Keeping it Fresh
There is nothing more visually satisfying than strolling down the fresh produce aisle, picturing all the colourful dishes you could create. We’ve felt the joy too!
However, there are some issues that stem from the choice of fresh fruits and vegetables. The first being that they are sourced before they are ripe, after which they finish ripening during transportation to their chosen destination. This allows them to be moved (this could be anything from 2 days to several weeks!)
Yet, it also means that they often have a reduced period to develop the full range of minerals, vitamins and antioxidants our bodies cherish. In addition, if transit is particularly lengthy, fresh produce is often stored in controlled and chilled environments, and sometimes even treated with chemicals to prevent them going bad...ew.
Furthermore, once they reach the supermarket, they could be faced with an additional 1–3 days on display, and even then several days in people's homes before being consumed. Fresh doesn't sound so fresh any more...
| BEST BITS | DOWNFALLS |
|---|---|
| The act of shopping for fresh is often more satisfying (for now, but wait till the frozen variety get the limelight they deserve!) | Unless very local or home grown, fresh produce is often picked before it's fully ripened |
| If home grown, it is often top quality | Fresh produce is often treated to stay preserved long enough to reach consumers shelves |
| Growing your own fruits and vegetables can be immensely satisfying, even from a hobbyist point of view! | Fresh produce tends to be more expensive, while not providing more nutritional benefits |
Frozen Variety
Always hear people say “it's so much yummier when it’s in season” - well, that's because they're right! Produce left to ripen for the correct period of time, naturally, contain much more flavour and nutrition. This is something that the frozen variety can consistently provide all year long.
This is because frozen fruits and vegetables are generally picked at peak ripeness and nutritional levels. Following which they are washed, cut, frozen and sealed within a few hours of being harvested.
Although, no chemicals are usually added prior to freezing, they may be treated with sugar or a form of vitamin C (ascorbic acid). In addition to this, some nutrients are lost during the blanching process, which can take place prior to freezing. Blanching involves placing the produce in boiling water for a few minutes to kill harmful bacteria and prevent loss of flavour. However, this doesn’t apply to frozen fruits which don’t undergo blanching due to the risk of damaging their texture and taste!
Generally speaking, freezing allows produce to ripen fully and retain the healthy elements of fruits and veggies - yay!
| BEST BITS | DOWNFALLS |
|---|---|
| Tend to be cheaper and more convenient to find | Vegetables may lose nutrients during blanching process |
| Longer lasting and much less likely to be wasted (both at home and shops) | May lose nutrients if kept frozen for 1+ years |
| Harvested at peak ripeness for maximum nutrient retention | May lack texture due to moisture levels |
| Great texture for smoothies, smoothie bowls and nice cream. | It may not be as fun as strolling down the produce aisle! |
Aren’t we missing something?
Absolutely! Home grown produce. Undeniably the healthiest and most satisfying choice. Yet unfortunately not the most common, convenient or even possible! That being said, if you do have the space, the time and the ability to get down and dirty in your garden - Gardening not only produces the yummiest and healthiest produce, but is known to reduce stress and allow you to relax. Aka it kills two birds with one stone.
Moral of the story?
Freshly picked home grown food straight from your own garden is the highest quality option.
BUT if you are doing the picking at the supermarket, frozen produce can be even more nutritious than the fresh varieties. Not only this, but they are a convenient and cost-effective alternative that also prevent a bucket load of food wastage due to their longevity!
What does blend my day think? It’s best to opt for a mix of fresh and frozen to secure the best range of nutrients. We have a suggestion for the frozen variety ;) Whether it's a smoothie for your trip to the gym, or an indulgent oat bowl in front of the television in the evening, blend my day has got your back (think frozen blueberries, mango, spinach, kiwi and more…)
If you have any questions about this, please write to us at: hello@blendmyday.co.uk. We can't wait to see your experiences sharing on Instagram or Facebook - think of tagging @blendmyday_uk
