Make the most of tomatoes with blemishes

Surely it has happened to you that when you check your tomatoes you discover small holes in their skin. Your first reaction might be to throw them in the trash for fear that they are damaged or dangerous for consumption. However, before discarding them, it is important to understand what causes these holes and whether they actually affect the quality of the tomato.

Why do holes appear in tomatoes?

Holes in tomatoes can be caused by a number of reasons. Among the most common are:

1. Insects and pests: Some insects, such as tomato worms or certain beetles, pierce the skin of the fruit while feeding.
2. Mechanical damage: During harvesting or transport, tomatoes can suffer small punctures.
3. Lack of calcium or growth problems: Sometimes, nutritional deficiencies can affect the formation of tomato skin.

Is it safe to eat a tomato with holes?

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