Cherry tomatoes, often dismissed as the budget option, may actually be the most nutritious choice. Nutritionist Rob Hobson has revealed that these small fruits contain a more concentrated dose of beneficial compounds, including the antioxidant lycopene, thanks to their higher skin-to-flesh ratio compared to larger varieties.
Why Smaller Tomatoes Pack a Bigger Nutritional Punch
Rob Hobson, a registered nutritionist, told the Mail that many protective plant compounds are concentrated just beneath the skin. "Many of the protective plant compounds are just beneath the skin because this is the part of the fruit exposed to sunlight and environmental stress. The skin contains fibre and is rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, which are antioxidants," he explained.
Lycopene, the compound responsible for tomatoes' red colour, is well known for its antioxidant properties. According to Healthline, it has been linked to improved heart health and may offer some protection against certain cancers. Because cherry tomatoes have a higher proportion of skin relative to their flesh, they deliver more of these beneficial compounds per gram than larger varieties like beefsteak or heritage tomatoes.
Hobson also pointed out a practical advantage: "You are likely to eat more than one cherry tomato in one go, which means you'll consume proportionally more skin than you would if you were eating a single beef or heritage tomato."
Growing Your Own Tomatoes: Expert Tips from Monty Don
For those cultivating tomatoes at home, gardening expert Monty Don has shared advice on keeping plants healthy. Writing in his July blog, Monty noted, "I do not plant my outdoor tomatoes until June. But once they are in the ground, they will grow strongly and need regular tying up. This is, of course, if you are growing cordon tomatoes rather than bush or determinate varieties." He added, "The latter can be propped up rather like a herbaceous plant rather than tied regularly in."
To maximise your harvest, Monty recommends removing side shoots, maintaining consistent watering, and inspecting plants regularly. These practices help prevent common issues such as blossom-end rot, blight, and fruit splitting.
Beware the Rising Risk of Tomato Blight
As the season progresses, Monty warns of an increased threat from tomato blight, a fast-spreading disease that causes leaves to turn brown, dark spots and lesions on stems, and rotting fruit. "From late July, the risks of blight increase, dependent as it is upon the combination of high humidity and warm days and nights," he wrote. "The best defence for outdoor tomatoes is good ventilation and stripping off the lower leaves as the fruits develop, which helps this."
By following these expert tips, gardeners can enjoy a healthy crop of tomatoes, whether they prefer the small but mighty cherry variety or larger types. And when it comes to nutrition, the little ones might just be the smartest choice for your health.
