A picture of tomatoes from Fresh Gatherings Cafe at the last Farmer’s Market on North Campus reminds us of the wonderful flavor of a good homegrown summer tomato.

Unfortunately, homegrown tomatoes are leaving us quickly for the fall…But! You will be happy to know of the benefits of eating processed tomatoes, such as tomato sauce and ketchup!

Scientists have discovered that packaged, heat processed tomato products, such as spaghetti sauce, can deliver over 6 times more lycopene than the equivalent amount of fresh tomatoes. This is because the heat used during processing breaks down the tomato cell walls, allowing the lycopene to be better absorbed in your digestive track.

It’s important to note that lycopene is fat soluble. This means lycopene is better absorbed when it is eaten with fat. So if you are a fan of olive oil, cheese, or meat (aka pizza), now you have another excuse to eat another slice!