Common Myths About Frozen Ready Meals

Why Frozen Doesn’t Mean “Less Fresh”

For years, frozen meals have been treated like the poor cousin of home-cooked food — a last resort for busy nights. But modern freezing technology and real-ingredient cooking have changed that completely. In fact, the ready-made dinners found in most Kiwi freezers today are often fresher and more nutritious than the takeaway alternatives.

It’s time to clear up a few of the most common frozen food myths and show why frozen can be every bit as good as fresh.

 

 

Myth 1: Frozen Meals Are Packed with Preservatives

This one simply isn’t true. Freezing is the preservative. By snap-freezing food soon after it’s cooked, the natural freshness is locked in — no chemical preservatives needed.

At Delicious & Done, every meal is cooked in small batches, frozen at its peak, and delivered straight to your door. The result? Healthy frozen food that stays fresh naturally without the long ingredient lists or additives you’ll find in supermarket convenience meals.

 

 

Myth 2: Frozen Means Lower Nutrition

It’s easy to assume frozen equals “processed,” but the opposite is usually true. When food is frozen quickly after cooking, its nutrients are sealed in. Compare that to vegetables sitting in a fridge for a week slowly losing their vitamins, and it’s easy to see how frozen can come out ahead.

The key lies in the timing — quick freezing locks in taste, texture, and nutrients. That’s why dishes like Butter Chicken & Rice or Chicken Teriyaki & Veg from Delicious & Done taste like they were made that day.

 

 

Myth 3: Ready Meals Aren’t Wholesome or Filling

Many people imagine frozen meals as small, bland portions — but anyone who’s tried a Delicious & Done tray knows better. Our meals are hearty, balanced, and built to satisfy real appetites. With generous portions of protein, wholesome carbs, and vegetables, they’re nutritious ready meals that keep the whole family happy.

It’s home-style food, just prepared when you actually have the time to enjoy it.

 

 

Myth 4: Frozen Meals Are Only for Emergencies

Frozen dinners aren’t just backup plans anymore — they’re part of smart weekly planning. Busy families use them to fill the mid-week gap between sports practices, meetings, and late nights. Singles and students rely on them to save money and reduce food waste. And older Kiwis appreciate the comfort of a proper meal without the effort of cooking for one.

Keeping a few ready-made meals in the freezer isn’t lazy — it’s organised.

 

 

Myth 5: All Frozen Meals Are the Same

The frozen section at the supermarket might be hit-and-miss, but there’s a big difference between mass-produced options and handcrafted meals from a local kitchen. Delicious & Done meals are cooked in Whangārei using familiar ingredients, classic recipes, and a lot of care.

Each tray is oven- and microwave-safe, portioned for singles, couples, or families, and packaged with compostable insulation — so it’s a win for both convenience and sustainability.

 

 

A Fresh Take on Frozen

Frozen meals deserve a reputation makeover. When they’re made from real ingredients and frozen the right way, they’re a time-saving solution that helps families eat well — not a compromise.

If you’re curious about what modern frozen dining really looks like, explore Our Menu or check out the FAQs to learn more about how our meals are prepared and delivered across New Zealand.