Kiwi-grown tomatoes flocking to stores

Most tomatoes are now cultivated in advanced greenhouse environments and this beloved and versatile fruit is grown with minimal environmental impact.

Greenhouse-grown tomatoes require as little as six litres of water to produce one kilogramme of fruit, saving approximately 200 litres compared to traditional outdooring growing methods. To achieve this, greenhouses collect and use their own rainwater for irrigation and treat and recycle water back into their operation.

Natural pollination is another key aspect of the sustainable approach. Bumblebees, introduced in hive boxes, handle pollination within the greenhouses. Additionally, growers are increasingly adopting biological pest management techniques, minimising the need for chemical pesticides.

While many greenhouses are heated for parts of the year, an increasing number of growers don’t use heating. As an industry, tomato growers are committed to decarbonising by 2037 with many growers already turning to reusable energy sources.

The 5+ A Day Charitable Trust says that this means New Zealand consumers can enjoy tomatoes that are produced with a lower environmental footprint. These practices reflect a growing commitment by the country's tomato industry to offer products that are both high in quality and sustainability.

Tomatoes are not just eco-friendly, they are also packed with health benefits. They are a good source of vitamin C, making them a valuable addition to your 5+ A Day.

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“For men, in particular, tomatoes offer an extra advantage, they are the richest natural source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to prostate health. Lycopene is also responsible for giving tomatoes their signature red hue,” it says.