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Canned versus Fresh: Is There a Difference?

January 26, 2006

In the middle of winter, selections of fresh fruits and vegetables can be limited. Does canned produce share the nutrition of fresh produce?

Canned fruits and vegetables are good substitutes for fresh produce and sometimes may be healthier.

Fresh produce is nutritionally better when it is used within a few days of picking. Canned produce is picked and canned at its peak, so even though the heating process destroys some vitamins, the majority of the nutrients remain. Canned tomatoes, corn and carrot products provide higher amounts of some phytochemicals than their fresh counterparts as a result of the canning process.

Canned produce may be higher in sugars or sodium, so look for fruits canned in their own juice and vegetables without added salt.

Whether they are canned or fresh, make sure you eat 2 cups of fruit and 2 ½ cups of vegetables every day.

Produced by ADA’s Public Relations Team