Tomatoes are a staple in many kitchens worldwide, celebrated for their versatility and delicious flavour. Beyond their culinary uses, tomatoes have a fascinating history and some surprising characteristics. Here are five fun facts about tomatoes that might just make you appreciate this beloved fruit even more!
- Tomatoes Are Fruits, Not Vegetables
One of the most common misconceptions about tomatoes is that they are vegetables. Scientifically speaking, tomatoes are fruits because they develop from the ovary of a flower and contain seeds. More specifically, they are classified as berries. However, in the culinary world, tomatoes are treated as vegetables due to their savoury flavour and common use in salads, sauces, and other savoury dishes.
- The Largest Tomato on Record
Tomatoes can grow to impressive sizes, but did you know that the largest tomato ever recorded weighed a whopping 10 pounds 12.7 ounces (4.896 kg)? This giant tomato was grown by Dan Sutherland in Walla Walla, Washington, in 2020. The massive tomato was of the Domingo variety, known for producing large fruits. Growing such a huge tomato requires not only a great variety but also optimal growing conditions and a bit of luck!
- Tomatoes Were Once Feared to Be Poisonous
In the 18th century, tomatoes were often called “poison apples” in Europe. This fear stemmed from the fact that wealthy Europeans who ate tomatoes often fell ill and died. The real culprit was not the tomatoes themselves, but the lead content in the pewter plates commonly used by the wealthy. Tomatoes’ high acidity would leach lead from the plates, causing lead poisoning. This misconception lasted until the 19th century when tomatoes gradually gained popularity as a delicious and safe food.
- Over 10,000 Varieties of Tomatoes Exist
Tomatoes come in an astonishing variety of shapes, sizes, colours, and flavours. There are over 10,000 known varieties of tomatoes, ranging from tiny cherry tomatoes to large beefsteak tomatoes. They can be red, yellow, orange, green, purple, or even striped. Heirloom varieties, which are open-pollinated and passed down through generations, offer a particularly diverse range of flavours and appearances, making them a favourite among gardeners and food enthusiasts.
- Tomatoes Are Good for Your Heart
Tomatoes are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients that benefit your health. They are an excellent source of vitamins C and K, potassium, and folate. Additionally, tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to many health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease. Studies have shown that consuming tomatoes and tomato-based products can lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation, both of which are crucial for maintaining a healthy heart.
