Nutritional values

Question
I am wondering if there is any significant difference in fresh produce and frozen.  I am specifically thinking of vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, peas, etc.

I have been finding the convenience and value of frozen quite appealing but I do not want to miss out on the benefits of fresh.  Are vitamins, minerals, phytosterols, flavonoids and all of those other 'good things' preserved during the freezing process?

Are there any other reasons to go with fresh? Your advice is appreciated!

Thank you,
Kara

Answer
Hello Kara!

   Thank you for your great nutrition question. Fresh is the better choice because nothing can beat the taste and quality.  However, frozen can be just as nutritious because the phytonutrients preserve well in the freezer. In fact,  a new study from Green Giant food company says most Americans don't realize frozen vegetables are just as nutritious as fresh ones. The study says each year, more than half of all Americans throw away nearly $100 worth of spoiled vegetables. When instead, they could be using frozen vegetables that have a much longer shelf life and are just as nutritious.

Experts recommend that you buy frozen vegetables when what you're looking for is out-of-season. Frozen will be cheaper than buying fresh in this case, and will allow you to have more variety in your meals.

For more answers to your nutrition questions check out "Ask the Nutritionists" by George Rapitis at www.authorhouse.com or your favorite bookstore.

-George Rapitis, Bsc. Nutritionist
www.juiceblend.com  

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