Despite recent food trends toward fresher, local ingredients, cold is still in style as the frozen food and beverage industry remains an integral part of the US economy. According to a recent study commissioned by the American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI), the industry contributed $56 billion to US GDP in 2012 and accounts for 670,000 jobs in 49 states.

“In their quest to offer consumers convenient and nutritious products, frozen food and beverage makers and distributors also make a vital contribution to communities large and small in nearly every corner of the country,” says Kraig Naasz, AFFI president and CEO. “Understanding the positive role served by frozen food and beverage makers aids our efforts to advocate for sensible policies that drive economic growth and ensure the rightful place of frozen food as part of a nutritious diet.”