Buying frozen and canned produce could actually help working Indians eat more nutritional meals!

A recent ICMR report highlighting the many evils of ultra processed food sent news channels across the country into a frenzy of publishing fear-mongering articles. Like all those self-proclaimed ‘experts’ and dieticians with questionable certifications using Instagram to scream into our faces about how everything we were feeding ourselves was going to dole us an untimely death weren’t enough. In light of these developments and fresh food getting increasingly more expensive, how is the working-class Indian supposed to feed themselves?

As the cost of living continues to surge, families around the globe are feeling the pinch in their pockets. From housing to healthcare, every aspect of our financial lives is under scrutiny. Yet, perhaps one of the most telling impacts of this crisis is the subtle shift in our grocery shopping habits, particularly when it comes to fresh produce.

Amidst these tightening purse strings and pressure to eat clean and healthy, a trip to the grocery shop is akin to carefully picking your way through a minefield. And I, for one, would be lying if I said that all of this wasn’t frustrating me.

An IFPRI report revealed that nutrient-rich foods like fruits and vegetables are significantly more expensive than calorie-dense, processed options. And this is leading to a rather large sect of the population unable to meet the recommended dietary guidelines.

While this is a huge problem that needs to be addressed from multiple fronts, a more accessible alternative to farm-fresh veggies and fruits might be hiding in plain sight: frozen foods. Often overlooked in favour of their fresh counterparts, frozen foods offer a convenient and cost-effective solution.

We know what you’re thinking. Some @healthy_eats_with_champa advised you against eating frozen food because they don’t have the same nutritional value as ‘fresh’ food. However, contrary to popular belief, frozen fruits and vegetables can retain higher levels of certain nutrients, such as vitamin C and E, owing to their rapid freezing process.

In fact, freezing not only preserves nutritional quality but also extends shelf life, reducing the risk of food waste — another concern that weighs heavily on environmentally conscious consumers. With a little foresight and preparation, surplus garden produce can be transformed into a freezer bounty, ready to elevate your culinary creations.

Furthermore, another viable option that is oft painted in a negative light, canned fruits and vegetables, can also suit budget-conscious shoppers. Despite undergoing the canning process, which entails cooking, these pantry staples remain a reliable source of essential nutrients. To mitigate nutrient loss, consider adding canned vegetables towards the end of the cooking process, ensuring maximum retention of their nutritional value.

For those seeking to diversify their palate while reaping the nutritional benefits, fermented foods offer a tantalising solution. Beyond their tangy flavours and crunchy textures, fermented vegetables harbour a wealth of probiotics, invaluable for nurturing a healthy gut microbiome.

In the face of economic uncertainty, the quest for nutritious yet affordable meals need not be an insurmountable challenge. By embracing the versatility of frozen, canned, and fermented produce, individuals can navigate the cost of living crisis without compromising on their health and well-being. So, the next time you find yourself perusing the aisles of the supermarket, consider the wealth of options available beyond the gleam of fresh produce. After all, a balanced diet is not a privilege but a fundamental right for all.