How Freezing Locks in Freshness, Flavor, and Nutrition

Author: Alison Bodor, President and CEO, American Frozen Food Institute

Freezing is one of the simplest, most powerful ways to keep food at its best. It locks in freshness, flavor, and nutrition so you can enjoy wholesome, just-like-home meals whenever life gets busy. A recent analysis by the American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI) found that frozen meals deliver nearly the same nutrition as homemade dishes, proving that convenience and quality can absolutely live on the same plate.

Is Frozen Food as Nutritious as Fresh or Homemade Meals?

AFFI’s research compared popular frozen meals like lasagna, mac and cheese, pizza, and broccoli with cheese to their homemade versions. The results showed that frozen foods match homemade meals within five percent of their nutritional value.

That is because freezing does not take away nutrients, it protects them. Freezing simply pauses food at its best. You can count on frozen meals to be as nourishing as the ones you make from scratch, with the bonus of being ready when you are.

How Do Frozen Meals Save Time Without Sacrificing Quality?

Frozen meals make dinner effortless. There is no chopping, mixing, or complicated prep, just heat and eat. On average, frozen entrées save about 35 minutes compared to cooking from scratch, according to AFFI’s findings.

That means more time for what really matters, whether it is unwinding after work, catching up on your latest show, or just taking a moment to breathe. Frozen food makes it easy to eat well, even on your busiest days.

Are Frozen Foods a Cost-Effective Way to Eat Healthy?

AFFI’s analysis also found that frozen meals cost about the same per serving as homemade meals, usually within five percent of the price of buying ingredients and cooking them yourself. And since frozen meals last longer, you waste less food and save more money over time. It is good for your wallet, good for your schedule, and good for the planet.

How Does Freezing Keep Food Fresh and Flavorful?

Today’s frozen foods are made with quality ingredients and flash-frozen at peak freshness to lock in nutrients and flavor. Vegetables are frozen right after harvest, and entrées are frozen right after cooking, so they taste just as fresh when you are ready to eat.

Frozen food proves that eating well does not have to be complicated. With nutrition locked in at its best and countless options to choose from, frozen meals are an easy, reliable choice for any lifestyle.

What Is the American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI)?

The American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI) is the national trade association representing the entire frozen food supply chain, from manufacturers and suppliers to distributors. AFFI advocates for the frozen food industry, provides science-based insights, and promotes policies that support innovation and access to healthy, high-quality frozen foods. Learn more at www.affi.org.