Have you ever been faced with a stall overflowing with vibrant red tomatoes, perfectly smooth, so beautiful you almost hesitate to buy them? And yet, behind this seductive appearance, some hide a less appetizing reality. Because not all tomatoes have ripened naturally in the sun… So, how can you tell them apart without making a mistake? Here are some concrete clues that will allow you to shop with peace of mind.
Color, a first misleading clue
A tomato that has grown peacefully in the sun develops a nuanced, almost luminous red, sometimes with slight variations. This interplay of hues is the hallmark of natural ripening. Conversely, fruits that have undergone an accelerated process often display a uniform, almost artificial red, lacking depth. It’s better to look for subtle variations than a perfect surface.
The underside of the fruit is a revealing detail .
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