Is there a difference in the nutritional value of fresh, frozen, and canned vegetables and fruits?
Yes, but they can all be good choices. Fresh foods are usually thought to have the most nutritional value. Often, though, frozen foods can be more nutritious than fresh foods because they are often picked ripe and quickly frozen, whereas nutrients can be lost in the time between harvest and eating fresh foods. Canning is more likely to reduce the heat-sensitive and water-soluble nutrients because of the high temperatures needed in the canning process. Be aware that some fruits are packed in heavy syrup, and some canned vegetables are high in sodium. Choose vegetables and fruits in a variety of forms.
