Most British Growers have now been harvesting for a few weeks, so hopefully the British tomato is starting to appear in the shops. Late May is when the quantities really start to increase so this is the ideal time to make sure everyone knows that British Tomatoes are here. It is often commented that it's really difficult to spot British Tomatoes in the shops. So to help British tomato enthusiasts this week British tomatoes will be supporting a sticker.
Tomatoes are rather wonderful. They are a good source of Vitamins A, C and E, the natural plant pigments known as carotenoids (both beta-carotene and lycopene) and flavonoids. Flavonoids are also found in red wine and tea. They also contain minerals such as potassium, which has been linked to lowering blood pressure and calcium, which is vital for healthy bones and teeth. Further, they low in calories, typically containing only 14 calories per 100g. They contain virtually no fat and no cholesterol.
There is a wonderful variety of tomatoes available in Britain. British growers carefully nurture the classic tomato, the cherry & cocktail tomato (a particular favourite), the plum & baby plum tomato, the beef tomato, the vine or truss tomato. The wide variety of tomatoes mean that they are a great selection of mouth watering recipes. I particularly like the look of Aromatic Baked Tomatoes, as suggested by the British Growers Association. It looks just delicious and ever so nutritious.
Happy tomato week everyone!
