What frozen foods to avoid, which ones to favour?

Frozen food itself is not inherently bad for you. In fact, freezing can help preserve the nutritional value of food. However, the perception that frozen food is less healthy may arise from a few factors:

1. Additives: Some frozen foods, like ready-made meals or processed items, can contain additives, preservatives, and high levels of sodium to enhance flavor and shelf life. These additives are not as healthy as fresh ingredients, and can even be carcinogenic.

2. Nutrient Loss: While freezing preserves many nutrients, some sensitive vitamins and antioxidants may degrade over time in frozen foods, especially if they're stored for extended periods.

3. Quality Variability: The quality of frozen food can vary depending on the brand and how it was processed. Some may contain lower-quality ingredients or unhealthy cooking methods.

4. High Caloric Density: Some frozen meals can be calorie-dense, which, if consumed excessively, may contribute to weight gain or other health issues.

It's essential to read labels and choose frozen options with minimal additives and focus on whole foods like frozen fruits, vegetables, and unprocessed meats or seafood to make healthier choices. Proper storage and preparation can also help maintain the nutritional value of frozen foods.

Good frozen foods?

Frozen fruits and vegetables can have advantages over fresh ones in certain situations:

1. Nutrient Retention: Frozen fruits and vegetables are often picked and frozen at their peak ripeness, locking in their nutrients. In contrast, fresh produce may lose some nutrients during transportation and storage.

2. Longevity: Frozen fruits and vegetables have a longer shelf life, reducing food waste and making it easier to keep a variety of produce on hand.

3. Convenience: Frozen fruits and vegetables are pre-cut and ready to use, saving time in meal preparation. This convenience can encourage people to consume more fruits and vegetables.

4. Availability: Frozen options are available year-round, regardless of the seasonal availability of fresh produce. This ensures a consistent supply of nutritious options.

5. Cost-Effective: Frozen fruits and vegetables can be more budget-friendly, especially when buying out-of-season produce.

While frozen fruits and vegetables can be nutritionally sound, it's still beneficial to consume a variety of fresh, frozen, and even canned produce to ensure a well-rounded diet. The key is to choose options without added sugar, salt, or sauces and to follow a balanced and varied eating plan.