A green-skinned, red-fleshed tangy-flavored tomato is one of three new varieties expected to make its debut next month at Israel’s largest agricultural exhibition. All three of the new varieties of tomatoes were developed by the Eden Seed Company and are designed for export, as are most of Israel’s tomatoes, although they are also marketed locally.
The slightly sour Pinton tomato, green on the outside and red on the inside, is highly prized by cooks in France, Spain and Italy. Spanish chefs especially appreciate the visual appeal of the tomato in salads with lettuce, tuna and asparagus.
The Winter Bricks cherry tomato (1-1.5 cm long) is being sold primarily in commercial markets in Spain as a specialty vegetable for use in sauces and other recipes.
The third and perhaps biggest attraction is a Spreading Tomato, one with flesh that is a bit dry, enabling it to be spread on to bread or to be used in other ways. This one is also aimed at the Spanish market, where consumers commonly enjoy bread with tomatoes and olive oil.
Tomatoes are a major source of lycopene, a bright red carotene pigment and phytochemical with antioxidant properties. In recent years, research has pointed to lycopene as a possible protection against some forms of cancer, particularly prostate cancer. Nutritionists recommend eating at least one serving of fresh or cooked tomatoes daily.
The Israel Agricultural Association exhibition, which will feature new varieties of tomatoes, eggplants, peppers, spices and other produce, will be held in the Arava Research and Development Center on January 27-28.
Entrepreneurs will be on hand to discuss the latest developments in the field of agriculture, development of new pesticides, tractors and other agricultural vehicles, computerized agricultural management, transportation and fertilizers. There will be a farmers’ market, music and food, and entrance is free to the public.
For more information (in Hebrew), click here or call 03-692-9915.