Tomatoes are known to be one of the healthiest foods on the planet. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium and lycopene. Diced tomatoes are a popular ingredient in many recipes, but are they still healthy when they come in a can? In this article, we will look at the health benefits and drawbacks of canned diced tomatoes.
The Pros of Canned Diced Tomatoes
Convenience
One of the upsides of canned diced tomatoes is convenience. They are pre-diced and canned for longer shelf life, making them easy to use all year round. This is a boon for those who don’t have access to fresh tomatoes, or when fresh tomatoes are out of season.
Nutritional Value
Canned diced tomatoes have a nutritional value similar to fresh tomatoes. They are rich in nutrients such as vitamin C and antioxidant lycopene. Moreover, canned tomatoes are partially cooked in the canning process, which makes the lycopene in them more bioavailable and easier to absorb by the body.
Affordable
Canned diced tomatoes are much cheaper than fresh tomatoes. Tomatoes are a seasonal crop, and can be expensive when they are out of season. Canned tomatoes offer a year-round supply without the cost of fresh tomatoes.
Easy to Store
Canned diced tomatoes are also easy to store. They have a long shelf life and can be stored in the pantry, making them a convenient ingredient for many different recipes.
The Cons of Canned Diced Tomatoes
High in Sodium
Canned diced tomatoes can be high in sodium. Manufacturers often add salt to preserve them, which can increase the amount of sodium in your diet. Those on a low-sodium diet should look for canned diced tomatoes labeled as "No salt added" or "Low sodium".
Added Sugar
Some manufacturers add sugar to canned diced tomatoes to improve their taste. This can add unwanted calories to your meals. Look for the canned tomatoes without added sugar.
BPA Exposure
Some canned diced tomato products may contain BPA, an industrial chemical used in epoxy resins and polycarbonate plastics. Studies suggest that BPA exposure may increase the risk of cancer, heart disease and other health issues. Look for canned tomatoes labeled as "BPA-free" or choose tomato products packaged in glass jars.
Conclusion
Canned diced tomatoes have their advantages and disadvantages. They provide convenience, nutritional value, affordability and ease of storage. However, they can also be high in sodium, sugar and may contain BPA. When choosing canned tomatoes, it is important to read the label to know the ingredients and assess the nutritional value. Look for options with no added salt, sugar and BPA-free packaging.
