British Tomato Fortnight 27th May – 9th June.
British Tomato Fortnight is celebrated annually to promote the British tomato. It is also to promote the quality of British tomatoes. The tomatoes are usually grown in greenhouses due to this country’s temperamental climate. The tomatoes are exposed to fewer pests and fewer pesticides letting consumers feel certain about what they are eating and where it comes from.
Look out for the British tomato they make up other food products such as ketchup, soup and sauce, all of which are important parts of the tomato world.
The aim of British Tomato Fortnight is to create awareness about the high quality of tomatoes that the UK produces. The celebration is also to raise awareness of the health benefits of eating tomatoes and to get customers to support local growers.
Tomatoes originate from the Andes. The Incas and Aztecs were the first to cultivate the fruit as early as 700 A.D. The English word tomato comes from the Aztec ‘tomatl.’ Tomato growers work year-round to ensure that tasty tomatoes are readily available. Tomatoes are usually grown in greenhouses, and these not only provide a protective and controlled environment but ensure that there is minimal contact with pests and pesticides. The first glass greenhouses were built in Kent and Essex.
