From mid-July to late July, Maine residents can enjoy the freshness and flavor of locally grown tomatoes that have been picked at peak ripeness. Though technically a fruit, the tomato is treated as a vegetable. Originally tomatoes were yellow, but today most of those produced in the United States are red.
Tomatoes are a rich source of lycopene, a carotenoid that is a powerful antioxidant.
Nutrition Information Tomatoes are a rich source of lycopene, a carotenoid that is a powerful antioxidant. Tomatoes also contain vitamin C and vitamin A. Tomatoes that are vine-ripened are higher in vitamin C than greenhouse tomatoes. Fresh tomatoes contain more vitamin C than those that are processed or cooked. Selection Select firm, fragrant fruit with full red color. Avoid bruised, blemished, soft or hard fruit.