Having a diverse diet is a big part of a healthy immune system, but during this period it recommended you go shopping for food as little as possible. So many people wonder what should they choose: canned or frozen foods? Nobody denies the benefits of fresh fruits and vegetables, but we are talking about a particular situation when canned and frozen foods seem a budget-friendly option.
Frozen foods advantages
Foods are typically frozen immediately following harvest (for fruits and vegetables) or being caught (for seafood and fish). They usually have a high nutrient content and their calories and macronutrients donțt change. You can even buy blended options, a mix of broccoli and cauliflower for example, mix of vegetables for soups, mix of berries for milkshakes and this choice makes frozen foods less costly, as you donțt have to buy them separately, to cut, chop and peel the. They are also easier to store.
Frozen foods disadvantages
Some frozen foods are more processed and contain added sugar, salt or preservatives. For example, frozen chicken is often pumped with a sodium solution, potatoes are typically frozen as fries and some fruits are frozen in syrup. Read the nutrition labels and look for whole foods with few ingredients listed so you can make the best choice for your nutrition.
What kind of foods can be frozen?
Banana
The potassium-rich fruit makes a great addition to smoothies and can be blended to make vegan ice cream.
Berries
Frozen at peak freshness, berries are rich in fiber and antioxidants, which they retain when frozen. Berries also hold up well after thawing and make a great addition to oatmeal, yogurt, smoothies, quick breads and energy bars.
Cruciferous vegetables
Broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts are great frozen options, and taste just as great when roasted or sautéed from frozen as they do fresh.
Fish and seafood
Frozen fish offers the same nutrients and macros as fresh. Try fatty fish like salmon, which is rich in omega-3’s (to support brain and heart health). If you’re looking for a leaner protein option, try tilapia.
Peas
Fresh peas have a very limited season and canned varieties are typically soft and mushy. Frozen peas, however, are delicious in everything from casseroles, to soups and grain bowls. In the same category, frozen edamame and black-eyed peas are great protein-rich options, too.
Canned Foods Advantages
Canned foods are extremely affordable, have a long shelf life and can be easier to store more of than frozen foods (which can only take up so much space in your freezer). They are easier to prepare, let’s take the example of black beans, you just open the can and they are ready to use. You don’t have to rinse and soak dried beans overnight, then boil them and simmer them for several hours.
Canned tuna is also an affordable and convenient option, less costly than fresh or frozen fish and in is ready to eat in a matter of minutes.
Canned Foods Disadvantages
The tradeoff with canned foods is its texture and flavor can be inferior to its fresh or dried counterparts. Many canned foods also have salt, sugar and unnecessary preservatives added during processing. In particular, canned fruit often says “packed in its own juice,” which is actually a hidden sugar bomb, so you’re better off choosing fresh or frozen fruit.
In Conclusion
When you don’t have the option to consume fresh fruits, we would rather recommend frozen foods than canned foods with the condition you carefully read the label.
