Some influencers have built entire social media empires from doing everything from scratch. Their videos often carry an implicit sense of moral superiority, implying that you’re not a good parent (or at least not as good as them) if you use prepackaged store items. Those who choose their products themselves, and carefully make your own candy necklace They should simply work harder, love their children more, basically they are right.
But this suggestion is hardly fair. For the vast majority of people – including those who don’t live off wellness content or have an almost endless amount of time and money to burn – canned, frozen and packaged stuff is almost always a much more practical solution. “Grocery stores are an asset” – Anthea Levi, MS, RD, a Brooklyn health writer and founder of Alive+Well Nutrition tells SELF—and fresh produce tends to be the most expensive, as a trip to the produce section of the supermarket can easily prove.
In addition to the lower price, canned, frozen and packaged foods have another significant advantage: their durability. “You can keep it in the freezer for months, so it often gives people confidence” in buying because they know they don’t have an expiration date hanging over their head, Desiree Nielsen, RDa recipe developer who focuses on plant-based nutrition, tells SELF. This, in turn, reduces food waste: “Fresh salad greens are notorious for getting slimy in the fridge, but frozen spinach never has that problem. It’s the same for fish. Fresh fish should be cooked as soon as possible before it turns over, while frozen fish and canned or canned fish are kept until you’re ready to use them,” says Levi.
Nielsen also disputes the basic idea that these options are somehow inherently inferior — a “big, big misconception” in his eyes. “There’s usually a lot of confusion about the nature of these foods. Just because something has been processed or packaged doesn’t mean it’s unhealthy,” he says.
In other words, canned, frozen, or packaged foods are often perfectly fine to include in your diet—and you shouldn’t feel ashamed, embarrassed, or inadequate if they’re often included in your diet (or if they’re your first choice instead of fresh). “Unfortunately, constant access to fresh food is a luxury. If canned, frozen, or packaged products are the only way to get fruits or vegetables on your plate, go for it,” says Levi. But if you’re still concerned about the health aspect, there are a few key ways to maximize nutritional value and improve your overall experience. Here’s what you need to know to get the most out of your freezer relay.
