Canned tomatoes are a pantry staple that can add great flavor and nutrition to your meals. 100 g of red tomatoes (canned) contain approximately 17 calories per serving. Tomatoes are a rich source of several vitamins and minerals that can help boost your health and wellbeing.

According to the USDA, 100g of canned tomatoes contains around 21% vitamin C, 25% vitamin A, 5% potassium, 3% iron and 1% calcium. They are also a great source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect your body against cellular damage and chronic diseases.

In this article, we will cover the nutritional content of canned tomatoes, the benefits they offer, how to incorporate them into your diet, and the best ways to store and cook them.

Benefits of Canned Tomatoes for Health

Canned tomatoes offer many health benefits due to their high nutrient content. Eating canned tomatoes regularly may help reduce the risk of certain cancers such as prostate cancer, breast cancer, and lung cancer. They may also help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and improve heart health. Lycopene, the antioxidant found in tomatoes, plays a significant role in these health benefits. Lycopene has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, osteoporosis and type 2 diabetes. It also has anti-cancer properties, making it an important nutrient for overall health. Incorporating canned tomatoes into your diet can also help you meet the recommended daily intake of vitamins and minerals including vitamins C, A, and potassium. These vitamins and minerals can support immune function, promote skin health, regulate blood pressure, and maintain healthy bones and teeth.

Nutritional Content of Canned Tomatoes

Canned tomatoes are a rich source of several vitamins and minerals. They contain high levels of vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium, along with small amounts of calcium and iron. They are also a significant source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that can help reduce the risk of cancer and other chronic diseases. According to the USDA, 100g of canned tomatoes contain around 21% vitamin C, 25% vitamin A, 5% potassium, 3% iron and 1% calcium. Compared to fresh tomatoes, canned tomatoes contain slightly more sodium due to the processing methods used. This should be taken into account when planning meals.

How to Incorporate Canned Tomatoes into Your Diet

Canned tomatoes are an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. They can be added to soups, stews, pasta sauces, chili, and casseroles. You can also use canned tomatoes to make salsa, bruschetta, and even pizza sauce. You can also use canned tomatoes as a base for tomato-based dishes. All you need to do is sauté some onions and garlic, and add canned tomatoes and your desired seasonings. You can also blend canned tomatoes to make a smooth tomato sauce for pasta or pizza. Try incorporating canned tomatoes into your meals on a regular basis to boost their nutritional content and add flavor to your dishes.

Best Brands of Canned Tomatoes to Buy

When it comes to buying canned tomatoes, there are many options available in the market. Some popular brands of canned tomatoes include Muir Glen, San Marzano, and Hunt's. These brands are known for their high-quality products and delicious taste. When buying canned tomatoes, look for brands that use organic tomatoes and have no added preservatives or artificial flavors. Many supermarkets also carry their own brands of canned tomatoes that are just as good as the more expensive brands. These are usually more affordable and offer a good value for money.

Cooking with Canned Tomatoes: Recipe Ideas

Canned tomatoes are a staple ingredient in many classic recipes. Here are some recipe ideas that you can try with canned tomatoes:

• Spaghetti Bolognese
• Chili con Carne
• Tomato soup
• Goulash
• Stuffed peppers
• Shakshuka
• Lasagna

Storing Canned Tomatoes: Dos and Don’ts

Canned tomatoes have a long shelf life and can be stored for up to one year. Once opened, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. When storing canned tomatoes, it is important to follow these dos and don'ts:

• Do store canned tomatoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Do check the expiry date before buying canned tomatoes.
• Don't store canned tomatoes in the can after opening, as this can lead to bacterial growth.
• Don't freeze canned tomatoes, as this can change their texture and taste.

Are Canned Tomatoes Safe to Eat?

Canned tomatoes are considered safe to eat and are subject to strict quality control processes to ensure their safety. The canning process involves heating the tomatoes to high temperatures, which kills any harmful bacteria and pests that may be present in the tomatoes. However, it is important to check the expiry date on the can before consuming canned tomatoes. If a can is swollen, dented or shows other signs of damage, it is best to discard it.

Comparing Canned vs Fresh Tomatoes

Fresh tomatoes are a delicious and healthy ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes. However, canned tomatoes offer several advantages over fresh tomatoes:

• Canned tomatoes have a longer shelf life and can be stored for up to one year.
• Canned tomatoes are available year-round, whereas fresh tomatoes are seasonal.
• Canned tomatoes are often cheaper than fresh tomatoes.
• Canned tomatoes offer the same nutritional benefits as fresh tomatoes, and may even contain more lycopene due to the processing methods used to produce them.

Canned Tomatoes vs Tomato Sauce: Which is Healthier?

Canned tomatoes and tomato sauce are both healthy ingredients that can be used as a base for a wide range of recipes. However, there are some differences between the two:

• Canned tomatoes are more versatile and can be used in a wider range of dishes than tomato sauce.
• Canned tomatoes offer a more natural and fresh flavor, whereas tomato sauce is often heavily processed and contains added sugars and preservatives.
• Canned tomatoes are generally healthier than tomato sauce, as they contain fewer added ingredients and are less processed.

Canned Tomatoes and Weight Loss: The Connection

Canned tomatoes can be a great addition to a weight loss diet. They are low in calories, high in fiber, and contain several vitamins and minerals that can help support weight loss. The high fiber content in canned tomatoes helps slow down digestion, keeping you full for longer periods. Additionally, the antioxidants found in canned tomatoes help fight inflammation and support healthy metabolism. Incorporating canned tomatoes into your meals can be a great way to add flavor and nutrition to your diet while staying on track with your weight loss goals.