Green Tomato

A green tomato is an unripe tomato that has not yet developed its full color and flavor. It is a fruit that grows on the vine of the tomato plant, Solanum lycopersicum. Green tomatoes are typically harvested before they ripen to a red color.

Green tomatoes are often used to add a tart, slightly acidic flavor to dishes. They are commonly pickled, fried, or used in relishes and salsas. Manufacturers use them for their distinct taste and texture, especially in condiments and preserved vegetable products.

Green tomatoes are a natural food ingredient and are generally recognized as safe by the FDA. They contain vitamins and antioxidants, similar to ripe tomatoes. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated various food ingredients, but specific evaluations for green tomatoes as a distinct ingredient are not widely publicized. At typical consumption levels, they are considered safe and nutritious.