10 side effects of eating frozen fruits and vegetables

Eating frozen fruits and vegetables may seem convenient but can sometimes lead to side effects and effects digestion, nutrition and overall health. (Image: Canva)

Frozen fruit and vegetables are often sold as a healthy and convenient alternative to fresh produce. They have a longer shelf life, are easier to stash away, and are quicker to fix. Though freezing does help keep critical nutrients intact to some degree, regularly eating frozen fruits and vegetables can have its downsides, which are mostly ignored.

The freezing process, shelf life and added ingredients in packaged frozen foods can impact their nutritional value, flavor and potential safety. Also, lots of commercial frozen stuff is pumped full of sugar and salt and preservatives, and that's not necessarily nutritious for you, if eaten on a regular basis. Furthermore, inappropriate storage and thawing can lead to the possibility of contamination and food poisoning.

Also read: Bloating even after eating healthy foods? Gut doctor explains why

Dr Ayesha Malhotra, Nutrition and Wellness Expert, shares 10 reasons why to ditch frozen fruits and veggies and why fresh is better.

Nutrient Loss Over Time

Freezing a food has a retarding effect on nutrient degradation but it’s not a complete stop. Freezing and long storage can cause vitamins, such as Vitamin C, B-complex vitamins and folate, to decrease. Fruits and vegetables are usually more nutrient-rich fresh than thawed.

Added Sugars in Frozen Fruits

Most frozen fruits, like berries or peaches, are packed in syrup or sugar solutions to improve flavor and texture. These extra sugars add calories can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and a heightened risk for diabetes.

Excess Salt in Frozen Vegetables

Pre-seasoned or heat-and-serve frozen vegetables generally have salt added to enhance the flavor and extend shelf life and those can result in hypertension, heart disease, kidney problems.

Altered Texture and Taste

Cell walls can break down as well during the process of freezing and thawing, resulting in fruits and vegetables that can be mushy or less crisp than before. The negative textural transition tends to make the morning glory less tasty, thus the fresh vegetables are eaten less often.

Freezer Burn and Quality Loss

Incorrect storage can result in freezer burn, in which moisture evaporates and creates dry spots on the food. Freezer burned fruits and vegetables lose taste, texture, and nutritional value and can become unpleasant and unhealthy.

Risk of Contamination

If frozen fruits or veggies are not stored at a constant temperature or thawed incorrectly, bacteria such as Listeria and Salmonella start to grow. This creates a real danger of foodborne disease.

Reduced Antioxidant Levels

Some antioxidants (like polyphenols) decline in an inverse proportion as smoke from freezing and storage. That would suggest that frozen produce may not have the same disease-fighting properties as fresh fruits and vegetables.

Presence of Chemical Preservatives

Some processed frozen items, like frozen broccoli, are sprayed with chemicals like sulfites to help preserve color and texture. These additives may be allergens in sensitive individuals and would not be appropriate for asthmatics or persons who are chemically sensitive.

Also read: Mediterranean diet: This simple diet plan will keep your brain sharp even if Alzheimer’s runs in your family

Hidden Calories in Frozen Meals

Frozen vegetables are frequently incorporated as ingredients in fully cooked dishes which include sauces, oils, spices, and the like. These are extras that scale the calorie, fat, and high sodium values outstripping the health benefits.

Overreliance on Frozen Produce

Relying excessively on frozen fruits and vegetables may decrease the amount you consume of more nutrient-dense fresh produce, which also tends to taste better and have more water per serving for hydration.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.