Make the Most of Tomatoes with Blemishes

You’ve probably noticed small holes in your tomatoes when you check them. Your first reaction might be to throw them away for fear that they’re damaged or unsafe to eat. However, before discarding them, it’s important to understand what causes these holes and whether they actually affect the tomato’s quality.

Why do holes appear in tomatoes?

Holes in tomatoes can be caused by several reasons. Among the most common are:

Insects and pests: Some insects, such as tomato worms or certain beetles, pierce the skin of the fruit while feeding.

Mechanical damage: During harvest or transport, tomatoes can suffer small holes.

Lack of calcium or growth problems: Sometimes, nutritional deficiencies can affect the formation of the tomato skin.

Is it safe to eat a tomato with holes?

In most cases, a tomato with a small hole is still safe to eat. If the inside of the tomato shows no signs of mold, rot, or unpleasant odor, you can simply cut out the affected area and use the rest without problem.

However, if the hole is surrounded by dark spots, mold, or if the tomato has an unpleasant odor, it’s best to discard it, as it could be contaminated with bacteria.

Alternatives to Waste

Instead of throwing away these tomatoes, consider some options:

Cut and use the healthy part: If the damage is superficial, you can use the rest of the fruit in sauces or stews.

Make compost: If the tomato is severely damaged, you can use it to enrich the soil in your garden.

Recycle the seeds: If the tomato is in good condition inside, you can collect its seeds to grow new plants.

In conclusion, it’s not always necessary to throw away tomatoes with holes. Evaluating their condition will help you reduce waste and make better use of these delicious fruits.