Cherry tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes

　　Cherry tomatoes, also known as mini tomatoes or small tomatoes, are an annual vegetable belonging to the Solanaceae family, genus Solanum, and are a variety of the cultivated subspecies of tomato. They originated in Peru. Since the 1980s, they have rapidly developed around the world. In recent years, they have been introduced to China from abroad and can be cultivated in both southern and northern regions. Cherry tomatoes are consumed as ripe fruits, offering a sweet and tangy flavor with rich nutrition. The fully ripe fruit can reach a sugar content of 7–8 degrees. Each 100 grams of fresh fruit contains about 94 grams of water, 2.5–3.8 grams of carbohydrates, 0.6–1.2 grams of protein, 20–30 milligrams of vitamin C, as well as carotene, vitamin B, minerals, and more. They can be eaten raw like fruit or cooked in dishes, and can also be made into canned products, offering a unique flavor. Their juice contains mercurous chloride, which is particularly effective for liver diseases, and they also have diuretic and kidney-protecting properties. The skin of the fruit contains substances similar in function to vitamin D, which can help lower blood pressure and prevent diseases such as arteriosclerosis and cerebral hemorrhage. In recent years, the planting area in China has gradually increased, making them highly favored by hotels and restaurants.