Tomatoes are among the most popular and commonly purchased vegetables in the world. They are used in a variety of food combinations, such as salads, sandwiches and burgers, processed into other food items like various pasta sauces, and eaten on their own as a delicious snack. They can be sliced, diced, halved and even minced. Tomato producers offer a huge array of products made from this one vegetable.

Doctors and nutritionists recommend eating several vegetables and fruits every day. A tomato is not only a tasty treat, it is also a healthy food. The nutritional benefits tomatoes provide include:

1. A great supply of Vitamin C.

2. Large amounts of lycopene, which is a natural antioxidant that gives tomatoes their bright red color.

3. Certain recent studies have shown tomatoes that have been cooked are likely to reduce the risk of heart problems caused by cholesterol.

4. Low levels of fat and sodium in each tomato.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy several tomato varieties from tomato growers

Tomatoes can be found on line, at any grocery store, farmers market or vegetable stand. They are usually inexpensive and are available singularly or in groups on the vine. Try out different types of the vegetable and enjoy the diversity this nutritious food has to offer.

I recommend: Mastronardi Produce Ltd. is a producer of tomatoes, vegetables and assorted other products. Lott Ranch & Orchard Inc. sells tomatoes to retailers as well as individuals. TurtleWorks Farms sells cherry tomatoes and paste tomatoes for use in sauces from their website.

Choose an organic tomato

These days people are switching to organic products. Organic foods are not sprayed with the man-made chemicals and pesticides many other foods use, so they are a healthier choice. Going green and eating organic is becoming a widely accepted practice as people take more time to consider their health and the quality of the foods they consume.

I recommend: Muir Glen, owned by Small Planet Foods Inc., sells canned organic whole tomatoes. Cottle Farms offers a variety of organic vegetables including tomatoes.

Grow your own tomato plants

Growing tomatoes is a great way to produce your own food and save money. They are easy to grow, do not require much maintenance and will only take up a small amount of space in your yard. Purchase tomato seeds or a tomato plant and start your own farm.

I recommend: Gardeners' Choice Inc. sells a variety of tomato plants. Gurney Seed and Nursery Co. offers many types of plant seeds for tomatoes and other vegetables. Anioleka Vegetable Seeds Co. sells seeds for tomatoes in various colors and sizes.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Find a local farmers market to visit for a variety of tomato types that are grown in your community.
• •  Enjoy cherry tomatoes as a healthy alternative when you crave a late-night snack.