Is Tomato Bad if Plants are Growing Inside it?

Many people have come across pictures of tomatoes with plants growing inside them, and the sight can be quite bizarre. While it is possible for plants to grow in fruits such as tomatoes, some people might wonder whether they are still safe to eat. In this article, we will explore whether a tomato with plants growing inside it is bad for human consumption.

What Causes Plants to Grow Inside a Tomato?

If you have ever cut open a tomato to find a sprouting leaf or stem growing from its flesh, you might wonder what could have caused it. The truth is that tomatoes can grow plants inside them due to a phenomenon known as vivipary. Vivipary occurs when seeds inside the fruit start germinating while still inside it. The growth of the seeds produces a root which can push out of the fruit, and the beginning of the shoot, the developing plant, can be seen by the naked eye.

Are Tomatoes with Growing Plants Safe to Eat?

Despite the strange sight of plants growing inside a tomato, there is no evidence to suggest that they are bad for human consumption. If anything, the growth of plants inside a tomato could be a sign of freshness, as it indicates that the tomato has not been treated with chemicals to prevent sprouting.

That being said, it is important to note that you should be cautious when consuming a tomato with plants growing inside it. While plants growing inside a tomato are not harmful to humans, they could cause a slightly altered taste or texture to the tomato in question, which might not be appealing to everyone.

What is the Best Course of Action?

If you happen to find a tomato with plants growing inside it and are unsure whether to eat it or not, there is no need to panic. You can easily remove the sprouting seeds or plants from the tomato before consuming it. Alternatively, if you are not keen on eating the tomato, you could just discard it and opt for a fresher one from the store.

To prevent the growth of plants inside your tomatoes, it is best to store them in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposing them to direct sun or high humidity, as these factors could contribute to vivipary. Alternatively, you could opt for heirloom tomatoes in your garden which have not been treated with chemicals to prevent germination.

Conclusion

Tomatoes with plants growing inside them might seem odd at first, but they are not harmful to human consumption. In fact, they could be an indication of freshness and the absence of chemicals that prevent sprouting. However, if you are not keen on the altered taste or texture of the tomato, you could always remove the sprouting seeds or plants or discard the tomato altogether. By being aware of vivipary and taking necessary precautions, you can continue to enjoy your tomatoes safely and deliciously.