Vine Ripened Plum Tomatoes
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What it is
Vine-ripened plum tomatoes are a variety of tomato, specifically a cultivar of *Solanum lycopersicum*. They are known for their elongated shape, lower water content, and sweeter flavor compared to round tomatoes. They are grown on the vine until fully ripe to maximize their taste and texture.
Why it's used
Plum tomatoes are frequently used in cooking due to their dense flesh and fewer seeds, making them ideal for sauces, pastes, and canning. Manufacturers use them to provide a natural tomato flavor, color, and texture in products like pasta sauces, pizza sauces, and canned tomato products.
Health notes
Tomatoes are a source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants like lycopene. The FDA considers tomatoes to be generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for consumption. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated tomatoes and their components. Lycopene, a prominent antioxidant in tomatoes, has been studied for various health effects, though research is ongoing and evidence can be mixed regarding specific benefits at typical dietary intakes.
Allergen info
Tomatoes are not among the nine major allergens designated by the FDA. They do not contain gluten.