British households aiming to eat healthily could cut grocery bills by more than GBP1,100 annually by switching from fresh to frozen fruit and vegetables, according to new research from the British Frozen Food Federation (BFFF).
The findings come as the government continues to promote its “5-a-day” healthy eating message, even as sustained food price inflation makes it increasingly difficult for families to afford nutritious diets.
Using current supermarket prices, the BFFF compared the cost of an 80-gram portion of five commonly purchased fruits and vegetables—broccoli, spinach, mixed vegetables, strawberries, and blueberries—in both fresh and frozen forms. The analysis found that fresh portions cost an average of GBP0.46, compared with GBP0.30 for frozen alternatives. That 16-pence difference per portion translates into potential savings of GBP0.80 per person per day for those meeting the “5-a-day” target. For a family of four, the weekly savings amount to roughly GBP22.40—or about GBP1,165 per year.
The research forms part of the BFFF’s Frozen Food Revolution campaign, launched to inform and engage consumers about the affordability, nutrition, and sustainability benefits of frozen foods. The initiative coincides with Frozen Food Week, running from October 13 to 19.
A consumer survey conducted by insight platform Vypr for the BFFF found that 51% of UK adults believe rising prices for fresh produce have made it harder to achieve their daily fruit and vegetable goals. The federation says it hopes to demonstrate that frozen food provides a more accessible route to nutritious eating by offering longer shelf life, convenience, and value.
In addition to lower prices, frozen produce often retains its nutrients for longer. Studies show that chilled spinach retains just 20% of its vitamin C content after seven days, while frozen spinach maintains nearly 80%—a level that declines to only 50% after a full year.
“A healthy diet plays a huge part in the nation’s wellbeing, both physically and mentally. But for too many families, the rising cost of fresh food has put good nutrition out of reach,” said Rupert Ashby, Chief Executive of the British Frozen Food Federation. “These figures show just how much of a difference frozen fruit and vegetables can make. Not only is frozen fruit and vegetables every bit as nutritious – and in some cases even more so – but they are significantly more affordable and far less likely to end up wasted. Frozen food really is a win-win for health, happiness and household budgets.”
Additional data from Nomad Foods’ Frozen in Focus report suggests even greater potential savings. Nearly one in five consumers said they could save between GBP6 and GBP10 per week simply by organizing their freezer contents—an efficiency that could add up to roughly GBP530 per year.
Find out more at: https://bfff.co.uk/