Fresh or Frozen Fruit: Which Is More Nutritious?

JAKARTA — Fresh fruit is often considered healthier than frozen fruit. However, fruit stored frozen can have comparable nutritional value, and levels of some vitamins and antioxidants may even be higher in certain varieties.

Both fresh and frozen fruit contain fibre, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that the body needs. Eating a variety of both can help meet nutritional requirements and support health as people age.

According to Health, citing research published on Friday (23 October 2026), frozen fruit may contain slightly higher levels of vitamins C and E than fresh fruit. Frozen berries have also been found to contain higher levels of cell-protecting antioxidants than fresh berries.

However, antioxidant levels can fall after fruit has been kept in a freezer for several months. Health information comparing fresh and frozen fruit also indicates that increasing fruit consumption by 100 grams a day could help reduce the risk of several diseases, including stomach and colorectal cancers, heart disease and diabetes.

One advantage of frozen fruit is that it tends to be more affordable, particularly when the fruit is out of season. Berries, for example, are usually frozen when they are at their freshest.

Frozen fruit also lasts longer, reducing the risk of it being wasted because it has spoiled. This makes it easier for families to keep fruit on hand to eat whenever they wish.