A Fruit with a Colorful Past

The Tomato

Tomatoes are one of the most popular and versatile fruits in the world. They can be eaten raw, cooked, or processed into sauces, soups, juices, and ketchup. But did you know that tomatoes have a fascinating and controversial history that spans continents, cultures, and centuries? In this article, we will explore the origins, evolution, and impact of the tomato, and how it became the fruit we know and love today. 

From the Andes to the Aztecs: The Early Days of the Tomato 
The tomato plant is native to the Andes Mountains of South America, probably mainly in Peru and Ecuador. It is a member of the nightshade family, which also includes potatoes, tobacco, and chili peppers. The wild tomato was a small, green, and bitter fruit that grew on vines. It was domesticated by the indigenous peoples of Mesoamerica, especially the Aztecs, who called it tomatl. They used tomatoes in their cooking, medicine, and rituals. They also developed different varieties of tomatoes, such as red, yellow, and striped ones. 

From the New World to the Old World: The Tomato Travels to Europe 
The tomato was introduced to Europe by the Spanish explorers and conquistadors in the 16th century, as part of the Columbian exchange. However, the tomato was not well received by the Europeans, who were suspicious of its bright color and strange shape. They thought it was poisonous, or even a source of evil. Some even believed that tomatoes could cause leprosy, madness, or death. The tomato was also associated with witchcraft, as it was believed that witches used it to make potions and spells. The only people who dared to eat tomatoes were the poor, the peasants, and the Italians, who called it pomodoro, meaning "golden apple". 

From the Kitchen to the Garden: The Tomato Becomes a Delicacy 
The tomato slowly gained popularity and acceptance in Europe, thanks to the efforts of botanists, chefs, and gardeners. They experimented with different varieties, recipes, and uses of the tomato. They also discovered that tomatoes were not only edible, but also nutritious and delicious. They were rich in vitamin C, lycopene, and other antioxidants that could prevent scurvy, cancer, and other diseases. The tomato also became a symbol of beauty, love, and fertility. It was used as a decoration, a gift, and an aphrodisiac. The tomato was especially admired by the French, who called it pomme d’amour, meaning "love apple". 

From the Garden to the World: The Tomato Conquers the Globe 
The tomato spread to other parts of the world, such as Africa, Asia, and North America, through trade, colonization, and immigration. It adapted to different climates, soils, and cuisines. It also inspired new inventions, such as the tin can, the ketchup bottle, and the pizza. The tomato became a staple food for many people, and a source of income for many farmers. It also became a subject of art, literature, and culture. The tomato was celebrated, praised, and even thrown in festivals, such as La Tomatina in Spain. 

Conclusion
The tomato is a fruit with a colorful past, and a bright future. It has traveled from the Andes to the Aztecs, from the New World to the Old World, from the kitchen to the garden, and from the garden to the world. It has overcome prejudice, fear, and ignorance, and has proven its worth, taste, and benefits. It has become a part of our history, our culture, and our lives. So, the next time you eat a tomato, remember it’s amazing journey, and enjoy its juicy and tasty goodness. 

 By Betsey Sorrell