Should You Only Shop the Outer Aisles of the Grocery Store? Reviewing the Benefits of Using Canned and Frozen Foods
Are you tired of constantly throwing away spoiled produce or struggling to find time to cook fresh meals every day? Look no further than the middle aisles: your local grocery store's freezer and canned food sections. While fresh foods have their benefits, canned and frozen options also have a lot to offer. In this post, we'll explore the benefits of using canned and frozen foods, from convenience to nutrition and beyond.
Benefit #1: Convenience
Let's be honest, life can be hectic. Between work, school, family, and other commitments, finding time to plan and prepare meals can be a challenge. Luckily, canned and frozen foods offer a quick and convenient solution. Canned foods are shelf-stable, meaning they don't require refrigeration and can be stored for long periods of time. This makes them a great option for pantry staples like beans, tomatoes, grains, and soups. Frozen foods, on the other hand, can be stored in the freezer for even longer and are perfect for when you need a last-minute meal or ingredient. Frozen vegetables and fruits are just as nutritious as fresh and can be added to smoothies, stir-fries, and quick dinners.
Many canned and frozen meals are pre-cooked or pre-seasoned, saving you time and effort in the kitchen. With options like frozen meatballs, canned fish, and microwaveable rice, you can have a hot meal on the table in minutes. This can be especially helpful on busy weeknights or when you're just too tired or drained to cook from scratch.
Finally, buying canned and frozen foods in bulk can save you money in the long run. Since they have a longer shelf life, you can stock up when there are sales or discounts and have them on hand when you need them.
Benefit #2: Nutrition
One common myth about canned and frozen foods is that they are less nutritious than fresh options. While it's true that certain nutrients can be lost in the canning and freezing process, many canned and frozen foods are just as nutritious as fresh.
For example, canned tomatoes actually have more lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, than fresh tomatoes. Canned fruits and vegetables are also picked at their peak ripeness and canned or frozen immediately, locking in their nutrients. Frozen fruits and vegetables are typically blanched before freezing, which can actually help preserve their nutritional content.
Additionally, canned and frozen foods can be a great option for those who struggle to eat enough fruits and vegetables. Since they are so convenient and have a longer shelf life, you can always have them on hand for a quick and easy way to add more produce to your diet.
Benefit #3: Sustainability
Another benefit of using canned and frozen foods is their sustainability. While fresh produce is often touted as the most sustainable option, it's important to consider the resources that go into growing, harvesting, and transporting it. Canned and frozen foods, on the other hand, can be more sustainable in certain situations.
For example, canned foods require less energy to store and transport than fresh foods, which can help reduce their carbon footprint. Additionally, since they have a longer shelf life, they are less likely to go to waste. This is especially important when considering the amount of food waste that occurs in households and grocery stores.
Frozen foods can also be more sustainable in certain situations. Since they can be stored for longer, they can help reduce food waste by allowing you to buy in bulk and use what you need when you need it. Frozen foods can also be a great option for those who live in areas where fresh produce is not readily available or affordable.
From convenience to nutrition and sustainability, canned and frozen foods can be a valuable addition to any kitchen. So, next time you're at the grocery store, don't be afraid to stock up on some canned beans or frozen veggies. Let’s reduce any stigma associated with processed foods and acknowledge all of the positive benefits that these foods can provide.
Resources:
Refrigerator and freezer storage guide from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
200+ Recipe Ideas for Pantry Staple Ingredients
Canned Foods Make a Comeback By Juliann Schaeffer from Today’s Dietitian