Tomatoes

Tomatoes are the edible fruit of the tomato plant, though they are often used culinarily as a vegetable. They are native to South America and are now cultivated globally. Tomatoes can be consumed fresh, or processed into various forms such as canned tomatoes, paste, puree, sauce, or juice.

Manufacturers add tomatoes to foods for their distinct flavor profile, which includes umami, sweetness, and acidity, as well as their vibrant red color. They also contribute to texture and nutritional content. Tomatoes are commonly found in pasta sauces, pizza, soups, stews, canned goods, and condiments like ketchup.

In the United States, tomatoes are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) as a whole food by the FDA. They are a good source of vitamins C and K, potassium, and antioxidants, notably lycopene. As a whole food, tomatoes are not typically subject to the same additive evaluations by bodies like JECFA or EFSA, which generally consider them safe and beneficial when consumed as part of a balanced diet.