The American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI) kicked off National Fruits & Veggies Month by highlighting the important role of frozen food in closing the produce consumption gap. Currently, only one in 10 American adults are eating the recommended servings of fruits and vegetables a day, and nearly half of all children ages 1-5 don’t eat a single vegetable on a daily basis, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Frozen fruits and vegetables are an important part of the solution. 

“National Fruits & Veggies Month is not just a time to promote the benefits of eating more produce, but to also spotlight the ways that we can all easily add more fruits and vegetables into our diet,” said AFFI President and CEO, Alison Bodor. “By harvesting and freezing produce at the peak of ripeness, frozen food makers capture quality and nutrition of our favorite fruits and vegetables. No matter where you live or the resources available, frozen food offers a delicious and healthy option.”

Fruits and vegetables are flash-frozen shortly after harvest, locking in the nutrients before distribution and retail. Studies show that frozen fruits and vegetables have the same nutrition as their non-frozen counterparts. Plus, with their longer shelf-life, these products are available year-round, no matter the geographic region. 

Frozen food makes consumption more accessible for busy families. It comes peeled and chopped, so it’s even easier for households to incorporate fruits and vegetables at mealtime. Research finds that consumers who eat frozen fruits and vegetables eat more total fruits and vegetables than others. In a consumer survey conducted by AFFI, the vast majority (86%) of U.S. households agree that having frozen fruits and vegetables on hand makes it easier to eat more produce.

“As thought leaders and nutrition experts work to address our country’s produce consumption crisis, AFFI urges them to take advantage of the benefits of frozen during National Fruits & Veggies Month,” Bodor said.  

About AFFI
The American Frozen Food Institute is the member-driven national trade association representing all segments of the frozen food supply chain from manufacturers to suppliers and distributors. AFFI advocates before legislative and regulatory entities on the industry’s behalf, serves as the voice for the industry and convenes industry leadership to create an environment where frozen foods are essential in a dynamic marketplace.