Tomatoes are a staple in kitchens worldwide, but there’s more to these juicy fruits than meets the eye. Here are five fun facts about tomatoes that will surprise and delight you!
- Tomatoes Are Technically a Fruit
Botanically, tomatoes are classified as fruits because they grow from the flower of the plant and contain seeds. However, in 1893, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled them a vegetable for taxation purposes!
- There Are Over 10,000 Varieties
From tiny cherry tomatoes to massive beefsteaks, the world is full of tomato varieties in every shape, size, and colour. You can even find purple, yellow, and striped tomatoes!
- Tomatoes Were Once Feared
In the 1700s, Europeans called tomatoes “Poison Apples,” believing they were toxic. This misconception came from wealthy diners eating tomatoes on pewter plates, which reacted with the fruit’s acidity and caused lead poisoning.
- Tomatoes Have Been to Space
Tomato seeds have been grown aboard the International Space Station as part of experiments to study how plants grow in microgravity. Space tomatoes, anyone?
- They’re Full of Health Benefits
Packed with antioxidants like lycopene, tomatoes help fight free radicals, promote heart health, and boost your immune system. They’re a delicious way to stay healthy!
Tomatoes are more fascinating than they seem, from their fruit vs. vegetable debate to their space travels. Which fact surprised you the most? Let us know!
