2020 has seen a bumper crop of British tomatoes and an abundance of varieties, from super sweet cherries and baby plums, to classic tomatoes, are hitting supermarket shelves as the season peaks. Celebrating the moment Britain’s tomatoes are at their best is British Tomato Fortnight, May 25th – June 7th, when the British Tomato Growers’ Association encourages people to buy British and enjoy the humble British tomato.
At the moment, four out of five tomatoes eaten in the UK are imported. With European tomatoes travelling overseas, it is no coincidence people complain about their lacklustre taste as they are simply not as fresh. By buying British, tomatoes stay on the plant longer and are as fresh as they could possibly be, meaning you regain the super sweet, juicy, wonderful taste.
Julie Woolley, Secretary of the British Tomato Growers’ Association said: “Considering the challenges our country is facing, it’s amazing this year’s British Tomato Fortnight is looking better than ever. Arriving on supermarket shelves are some of the freshest and tastiest tomatoes we’ve ever seen. We’re so grateful for everyone that’s made that happen – from our dedicated growers, nursery and packhouse staff, delivery drivers, to supermarket staff.”
As well as encouraging people to look out for British tomatoes, The British Tomato Growers’ Association is thinking about food’s role in bringing communities together. It’s asking anyone cooking with British tomatoes to consider sharing a portion with someone in their community – an older neighbour, a frontline worker, or someone finding lockdown difficult. As long as it’s done so safely and according to government guidelines.
To get involved and share recipe creations, use #BTF20 and tag @britishtomatoes on Twitter or Instagram.