(IV) While frozen produce often gets a bad rap, research shows it can often be just as healthy—if not healthier—than fresh produce. In a study comparing the nutritional content of fresh and frozen corn, carrots, broccoli, spinach, peas, green beans, strawberries, and blueberries, researchers found that the vitamins in frozen produce are "comparable to and occasionally higher" than their fresh counterparts. Other studies have corroborated the idea that the only major nutritional difference between frozen and fresh produce is when refrigerated fresh produce loses nutrients after a few days. "Public perception is that frozen foods are bad, and that they're less nutritious because they're more processed,” says Caroline Thomason, a Washington, D.C.-based dietitian. “But that's actually not true." Produce is most nutritious when picked at peak ripeness, according to experts. But when fruits and vegetables are harvested depends on the form in which they will be sold. “Fresh produce sold in grocery stores is usually picked before peak ripeness to ensure that it’s not rotten by the time it hits your shopping cart. This particular journey from farm to table could take a week or two,” Thomason says. Frozen produce, on the other hand, is picked at or around peak ripeness, then blanched and packaged in a nitrogen atmosphere a few hours later, which helps preserve nutrients. "Freezing that produce locks in those nutrients, so we see all the vitamins and antioxidants remain stable for a long period of time," says Kylie Sakaida, dietitian and author of the cookbook So Easy, So Good. Furthermore, frozen produce is often less expensive and lasts longer in the freezer than fresh produce does in the refrigerator, which can help cut down on food waste. Despite this information, experts don't consider there to be one best way to consume fruits and vegetables. "I wouldn't say, 'Only choose frozen broccoli because it's going to retain its nutritional value,’" Thomason says. "That is an accurate statement—it is going to retain its nutritional value. But there are so many reasons why you might choose fresh: it tastes better, has a better texture." Adding more frozen produce to your diet is generally a good idea, especially if you’re looking to save money or want to enjoy certain produce outside of its season. But overall, frozen, grocery store, and farmers market produce all offer health benefits and can be part of a well-rounded diet.