Nutrition experts reveal the health benefits of frozen foods. If we talk about the nutritional value of products, then their storage conditions can play an important role. However, it is known that freezing food does not necessarily change its nutritional profile.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the product's nutritional value remains virtually unchanged when stored in the freezer. However, it is also essential to consider the product type and its blanching before freezing.
As Kelsey Costa, a registered dietitian and nutrition consultant, points out, the ice crystals that form during freezing can break down cell walls, leading to a small loss of some nutrients: vitamins C and B. But these losses are usually minimal.
If you do it right, freezing can even help you retain the nutrients in your food. One 2017 study found no significant difference in vitamin content between fresh, freshly prepared and frozen foods.
The best option for cooking defrosted food is steaming (rather than regular boiling). Microwave cooking, stir-frying, or outdoor frying can also help optimize the nutritional content of these foods.
The most important thing when defrosting is the time you spend on it. Defrosting for too long can negatively affect the nutrients in the food.
It is recommended to defrost food in the refrigerator, in the microwave, or during cooking. Never defrost food on a countertop or in a sink filled with warm water, as these areas have a high risk of germ growth.
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