Fresh Peas vs Frozen Peas vs Canned Peas - What’s the difference

Fresh peas are so delicious and so exciting to find in the market. Of all the forms found in the grocery store, fresh peas are the highest in nutrients, especially vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. However, fresh peas are harder to find outside their growing season, which is late spring through early summer. They also start to deteriorate rather quickly, meaning they need to get from the plant to your plate fast to retain their flavor and quality. This is why a farmers market will be the best place to find them during their season. Fresh peas will have a crunchier texture and sweet, yet sweet flavor. They’re perfect for a spring salad, pasta, or fried rice dish. 

Frozen peas retain many nutrients due to being frozen at peak ripeness. They’re often sweeter and more tender than fresh peas, which makes them preferable to some consumers. They thaw very quickly or even during the cooking process, making them an extremely easy, versatile ingredient for a variety of dishes. While freezing does extend their shelf life, they can become freezer-burnt if left unused for too long

Canned peas have the longest shelf life, which is more convenient for many people. They’re lower in nutrients due to processing and canning, but still an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. If you’re salt-sensitive, you’ll want to look for “low-sodium” or “ no salt added” options, as canned items can be high in sodium. Canning generally yields peas with a softer, mushier texture and a less vibrant flavor compared to fresh or frozen peas. Though a different end product than fresh or frozen peas, canned peas are great to keep in the pantry for when you need to add some veggies to a recipe. 

While fresh peas have the highest nutrient content, they’re not always the easiest to find and have the shortest shelf life. If you buy fresh peas and they go bad before you get to use them, what good are those nutrients to you? Between fresh, frozen, and canned peas (or any vegetable, really), the best option is the one that you eat.