Cherry Tomatoes, Bush Tomatoes & More: Which Tomato Variety Is the Healthiest?

Tomatoes come in many varieties, each with unique benefits and uses. Tomatoes are a staple in many dishes and are packed with vitamins. But with so many types available, which are the healthiest?

Which Tomatoes Are the Healthiest?

Different tomato varieties offer different health benefits. Dark red, smaller tomatoes like cocktail or date tomatoes are higher in antioxidants and lycopene than larger, lighter tomatoes. Lycopene, which gives tomatoes their red color, is beneficial for fighting free radicals. Cooking tomatoes can increase the availability of lycopene, which is why canned tomatoes, often processed and heated right after harvesting, can be especially nutritious.

Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes and other red fruits. It helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, potentially lowering the risk of certain cancers and heart disease. Tomatoes are one of the richest sources of lycopene, and its concentration is higher in smaller, darker varieties. Cooking or processing tomatoes, such as in sauces or canned tomatoes, breaks down cell walls and makes lycopene easier for the body to absorb, boosting its health benefits even further.

What Are The Most Popular Tomato Varieties?

• Bush Tomatoes: Also known as vine tomatoes, these grow in a bushy form, making them ideal for small spaces like balconies or windowsills. They're low-maintenance and easy to care for. Prune excess shoots to enhance fruit flavor.

• Stake Tomatoes: These grow upwards and need support, such as stakes, to keep them upright. They produce a rich harvest and are suited for gardens, greenhouses, or balconies. The term "stake" refers to the support needed, not the variety itself.

• Cocktail Tomatoes: Small and space-efficient, cocktail tomatoes are aromatic and great for salads, grilling, or snacking. They're perfect for small pots and spaces.

• Cherry Tomatoes: These tiny, sweet tomatoes come in various shapes and colors. They are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, making them a nutritious snack. Some varieties, known as children's or snack tomatoes, are especially sweet.

• Plum Tomatoes: Known for their elongated shape, plum tomatoes are ideal for sauces and soups due to their intense flavor. They are often used in canned tomatoes because of their strong taste.

• Beefsteak Tomatoes: These large, heavy tomatoes are flavorful and suitable for dishes like stuffed tomatoes or bruschetta. They require a lot of sunlight and warmth.

• Wild Tomatoes: Robust and high-yielding, wild tomatoes are less demanding and produce many small fruits. They are sweet and popular with children.

• Vine Tomatoes: These stay on the vine longer, allowing them to ripen fully and develop a richer taste. They're great for salads due to their fresh flavor.