How to tell if cherry tomatoes are bad?

What are cherry tomatoes?

The odds are that you’ve seen some type of cherry tomato at your local grocery store, but you may not know the stories behind them. This adaptable, fresh vegetable comes in a wide range of variations to meet every purpose.

Despite typically being thought of and used as a vegetable, cherry tomatoes are actually a fruit. Cherry tomatoes, like the bigger garden tomatoes you may be acquainted with, are typically red and sphere-shaped. There are many different types of cherry tomatoes available now, and they are not necessarily red. Some have a pale green or brown hue. Yellow cherry tomatoes are also available.

This versatile ingredient pairs well with fresh corn, chilies, watermelon, shelling beans, and fresh cheeses. These tomatoes may be eaten raw or cooked to increase their sweetness and taste depth.

Where did cherry tomatoes originate from?

There is substantial debate over where cherry tomatoes came from.

It is widely assumed that cherry tomatoes originated in South America millions of years ago, and archeological evidence implies that the earliest strains were produced by Mesoamerican farmers.

There are further allegations that the variety originated on the Greek island of Santorini and in Israel. Still, it is largely believed that the tomatoes originated in volcanic soil, which helped them keep their small size.

Unlike regular tomatoes, the genetic composition of cherry tomatoes has not altered.

What are the benefits of eating cherry tomatoes?

Cherry tomatoes are a nutritious snack. They are composed of 95% water and 5% of carbohydrates and fiber.

Cherry tomatoes are high in vitamin C. They are also regarded to be beneficial in terms of stroke and prostate cancer prevention, as well as bone health. A cherry tomato also contains potassium, vitamin K1, and folic acid.

When you eat cherry tomatoes, you’ll get a hefty dose of antioxidants like lycopene, beta carotene, and chlorogenic. There’s also the flavonoid naringenin, which has anti-inflammatory properties.

How are cherry tomatoes grown?

Seedlings may usually be transferred after the last frost and are planted 2 feet apart. For optimum results, the plants are watered once a week. Branches need to be kept off the ground as the plant grows, so they are commonly supported by stakes and a cage as the plant gets taller.

Cherry tomato plants are more robust than bigger tomato plants. They don’t appear to suffer from the same blossom end rot or other common problems tomato plants seem to suffer from.

Cherry tomato plants will produce throughout the season depending on the varietal, with the plants reaching maturity in 50 to 65 days on average. Certain cultivars may be harvested in as little as 45 days, while others might take up to 80.

The plants also flourish in pots, making it ideal for individuals who are just starting out with growing their own fresh veggies.

When are cherry tomatoes in season?

Cherry tomatoes are often a summer crop that dies when exposed to chilly temperatures. Plants cultivated outside of the growing season are usually grown in a greenhouse. Throughout July and August, look for the freshest cherry tomatoes.

What should I look for when buying cherry tomatoes?

Purchasing cherry tomatoes is similar to purchasing a standard tomato. Avoid cherry tomatoes that have blemishes, bruises, or wrinkled skin. Since cherry tomatoes are typically sold in plastic containers, it isn’t possible to inspect each one, but you can examine the container and see if anything is soft, misshapen, or leaking.

How to store cherry tomatoes?

Fresh tomatoes normally last one week at room temperature and two weeks in the refrigerator. It is highly recommended that you keep your cherry tomatoes away from direct sunlight until they are ripe and you are ready to use them.

If you want to use your tomatoes soon after purchasing them, store them on the counter. However, if you are only going to use them occasionally, you can place them in the produce drawer of your refrigerator.

Bring the cooled cherry tomatoes to room temperature before serving to increase their taste.

How can I tell if cherry tomatoes are bad?

Cherry tomatoes usually get soft and tend to leak some liquid when they start to go bad. They may still be edible in certain situations, but the flavor will be poor.

There is also the possibility of mold growing. You’ll see this along the skin of the fruit.

What can I substitute for cherry tomatoes?

The substitution of cherry tomatoes varies depending on the application. If you require fresh tomatoes for a salad or similar food type, you can substitute grape tomatoes. They resemble cherry tomatoes but are somewhat bigger. You can also use a garden tomato or a plum tomato, but you may need to drain the juice.

Sun-dried tomatoes may be used in a dish if desired. Finally, if you’re cooking anything on the stove, you may be able to utilize canned tomatoes. This is the time to find fresh veggies.

Related Questions

• What happens if you eat bad cherry tomatoes?

  Tomatoes and food poisoning
  Eating tomatoes that have been contaminated with harmful bacteria can make you sick. Salmonella-related food illness has been linked to contaminated tomatoes.

• When should you throw out cherry tomatoes?

  Cherry tomatoes keep their freshness for 4 to 6 days at room temperature or up to two weeks in the refrigerator.

• Is it safe to eat cherry tomatoes that are dark inside?

  Some gardeners advocate removing the black sections of the tomato since the healthy part of the tomato may still be eaten without concern. According to the findings of certain studies, the cause of BER is the tomato plant’s failure to extract adequate calcium from the soil at the optimum rate.

• Does one moldy cherry tomato ruin the rest?

  Even if you only spot a bit of mold on the outside, there could be more mold lurking underneath the surface of your tomato, according to the USDA. If just one tomato is moldy in the bunch, compost or discard it and check the rest as soon as possible for use.