Fresh, Frozen, or Canned: What is best for your Fruits and Vegetables?

Fruits and vegetables are good for you no matter what. This is something that we have known for quite a while. What is the actual difference between fresh, frozen, and canned fruits and veggies? Is there a difference? 

Of course fresh fruits and veggies are going to be the best for you but we all know that they can be more expensive and they don’t last as long as canned or frozen items.

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of what you buy no matter what form it comes in.

Canned fruits/veggies:

-    Cut out the salt – look for cans that are labeled “low salt”. Salt is added to these types of foods to try to preserve the item. Many times companies will reduce the salt in the can which makes it a much healthier choice.

-    Avoid added sugars – many cups of fruit or veggies will come in little cans that will say “with fresh fruit juice” or “with added syrup”. Try to stay clear of the syrup since it has more sugar. The fresh fruit juice would be the way to go. Also look for “no sugar added” or “unsweetened” cans. The less sugar the better!

-    Nutritional value of canned fruits and veggies tends to stay fresh up until you open the can. Make sure you eat your canned fruits or veggies right after you open it to get the maximum nutrition value and taste.

-    If you have dented or bulging cans throw them out or return them if they were just purchased. This could decrease the nutritional value and quality of the food.

Frozen fruits/veggies:

-    Check the label to make sure there is no added sugar in the packaging. Also make sure you opt for the “sugar free” or “no sugar added” packages.

-    Frozen fruits and veggies should be eating within 8 months of purchase.

-    Try to avoid the veggies and fruits that have the added dressing or sauces in them.

Bottom line: Fresh is always better but any fruits and vegetables is better than none!

Blog post by Krista Post.