Region of Origin
Commodity:
Tomato Heirloom
Description & Origin
Traditionally, tomato varieties classified as heirloom have seeds that can be saved and passed down from generation to generation to grow new plants. This is in contrast to “hybrid” varieties of tomato that are produced manually by cross-breeding – their seeds will not produce plants that are true to their parentage. That said, today many tomatoes marketed as “heirloom,” especially those grown in ...
Health Benefits & Nutrition
Heirloom tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and provide a good source of fiber and folate. They are low in calories and cholesterol-free. They also contain lycopene, one of the most powerful antioxidants.
Commercial Availability (Grown for the US Market)
Foodservice Tips
Traditional Culinary Uses
Heirloom tomatoes are primarily used fresh. The varieties used in mix cases of heirlooms are not recommended for cooking due to their high water content and delicate flesh, although it is possible to cook with them if desired. Heirloom tomatoes shine in simple, straightforward dishes like caprese salads, BLTs, and cold soups. They can even stand alone as a sandwich filling with high quality bread and mayonnaise. If cooking, try a simple heirloom tomato tart.
Flavor Pairings
Peach, Plum, Basil, Corn, Squash, Peppers, Cucumbers, Onions, Spinach, Lettuce, Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegar, Mozzarella, Ricotta, Shrimp, Fish, Anchovies
How to Prepare
Rinse the tomato well, dry, and slice or dice the tomato as desired. Thick slices are preferred to ensure they stay intact during plating.
How to Store in the Kitchen
Store heirloom tomatoes in a single layer at room temperature in a cool area out of direct sunlight that allows for ample air ventilation. Do not stack, as they can easily become bruised. They will continue to soften and develop full color as they ripen. Once tender and ripe, they must be used quickly. Do not refrigerate whole tomatoes, but once cut, it should be kept refrigerated.
Fight Food Waste Tips for root to stem cooking
While some claim tomato seeds can be bitter, many disagree. We don’t recommend seeding an heirloom tomato – we think the entire fruit is worthy of enjoyment!
Warehouse Storage & Handling
Maintain these conditions for optimal short-term storage shelf life.*
IDEAL STORAGE TEMP:
55°F
TEMP STORAGE ZONE:
55-60°F (Warm Storage)
SUBJECT TO CHILLING:
Yes-Tomatoes are very sensitive to cold. Storage below 50°F may result in failure to develop full flavor or color, softening, pitting, seed browning, and decay.
RELATIVE HUMIDITY:
90-95%
PRODUCES ETHYLENE:
Yes - Moderate
SENSITIVE TO ETHYLENE:
Yes - Medium
ETHYLENE RECOMMENDATIONS:
Tomatoes will produce ethylene as they ripen and should be stored away from ethylene-sensitive items.
RIPENS AFTER HARVEST:
Yes – Heirloom tomatoes will soften and develop their flavors as they ripen to full color.
PROFESSIOAL RIPENING RECOMMENDATION:
No – Heirloom tomatoes are generally harvested at a light-red stage and do not need to undergo professional ripening to achieve desired results.
Quality Assessment
Heirloom tomatoes are typically picked at a light red or red stage. They should be firm, but not hard, and may have some give. They should feel heavy in the hand. Irregularities in shape and size are to be expected in a mix variety case. Some may have many ridges or brown scarring, especially around the stem end, which is normal. Defects would include broken skin, leaking juice, decay, or mold.
Important Handling Notes
Heirloom tomatoes are picked ripe, not mature green. They also have very thin skin and juicy flesh. That makes them exceptionally fragile. Handle with care at all times. Do not squeeze or stack fruits and avoid tossing or tipping cases.
Optimum Shelf Life
Depending on variety, conditions at harvest, and handling, heirloom tomatoes may last up to 7-10 days.
