Gaby
The frozen food aisle in supermarkets has long had a bad reputation. A recent survey found that 84 percent of shoppers believe fresh products are healthier than frozen ones. Leading British dietitian and bestselling author Rhiannon Lambert says that belief is misleading.
She points out that the benefits of frozen foods go beyond fruits and vegetables. Meat and fish can be healthier when frozen too.
What the Expert Shared
“Fresh meat loses nutrients over time. However, freezing or buying frozen meat helps preserve both its nutrients and flavor,” Lambert says.
She says buying frozen beef or chicken can help avoid additives and preservatives that manufacturers sometimes add to fresh meat. Freezing fish also keeps beneficial fatty acids, such as omega-3s, intact.
“Recent research shows most of the omega-3 in fish remains active even after three months of freezing,” the dietitian added.
What About Vegetables and Fruits?
Lambert notes that frozen broccoli, sweet corn, and edamame retain most of their nutritional value.
Frozen broccoli often contains more riboflavin (vitamin B2) than fresh broccoli. Riboflavin supports digestive and brain health, the expert said.
She recommends freezing broccoli as soon as possible — ideally right after harvest. “This helps preserve the vitamins and antioxidants for a longer period,” Lambert said.
Frozen peas contain as many important nutrients, such as vitamin C, as fresh peas, she added.
When corn is frozen, it is usually at peak ripeness, which helps preserve its natural flavor and nutrient content.
The Daily Mail quoted Lambert saying, “Frozen corn contains more vitamin C than fresh corn; in fact, fresh corn loses about 50 percent of its sugar within just 12 hours after harvest. So frozen corn is often a much more viable option.”
For fans of edamame, she advises buying it frozen. Lambert also noted that soy can help reduce symptoms of perimenopause and menopause in women.
Fresh spinach not only spoils quickly but also loses nutrients rapidly. Buying frozen spinach preserves its nutritional value, including vitamin C and folic acid, for several months.
Overall, the news is positive. Lambert, who has studied this issue for many years, says people should drop the stereotype that frozen food is automatically unhealthy.
