Tomatoes with white or black mold
Those with a strong, rotten smell
Thick liquid oozing and smelling bad
Those with worms or larvae
If they have these signs, they're no longer safe. But if they're just soft, wrinkled, or have an unsightly part you can cut off… they still have plenty to offer!
DID YOU KNOW…?
The lycopene in tomatoes is more bioavailable when cooked.
Ripe tomatoes produce more juice and are ideal for fermentation.
In many cultures, they're used as the base for fermented foods and healing sauces.
In urban agriculture, ripe tomatoes are used to start new plants.
CONCLUSION: NOT ALL THAT'S RIPE IS LOST
The next time you see a very soft tomato, before you throw it away… stop and think! It can become sauce, a face mask, compost, or even a new plant.
Making the most of what seems like waste is not only economical, but also sustainable and wise.
