Frozen food is defined as “food that has been subjected to rapid freezing and is kept frozen until used. This means that the food has been frozen at a low temperature to preserve its freshness and prevent spoilage. Examples of frozen food include vegetables, fruits, meats, and prepared meals that can be reheated.
Frozen food does not require added preservatives because microorganisms do not grow at temperatures below -9.5 °C (15 °F). This natural preservation process helps maintain the quality and taste of the food. Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), a stabilizer, is often used to maintain the texture of frozen food.
In addition, frozen meals are convenient options for consumers as they offer a diverse menu and are easy to prepare.
A frozen prepared meal usually contains a meat entree, vegetables, starch-based food such as pasta, and sauce.
It’s important to note that heavily processed foods, including frozen or premade meals, may not be as healthy as minimally processed options. However, frozen vegetables, whole grains, and other minimally processed frozen foods can still be included in a balanced diet.