Tomatoes at the brink: Storing tips to avoid mould and waste

The characteristic white coating that appears on a tomato's skin means it is no longer edible. We suggest how to store these vegetables to prevent this. And if it does happen, the tomato doesn't necessarily have to end up in the trash.

Some people still think that cutting out the mould or removing it from the surface of the jam is enough. This is not the right approach.

Experts keep reminding us that any product that even has tiny traces of mould on it is no longer edible. The visible mould on the surface is not the end of the problem. Such a product still contains mycelium strands that carry health-threatening toxins.

In the case of dry, hard food, where only a small part is covered with mould, cutting off the spoiled part is allowed. However, this is risky, and it's better not to do it. However, when mould appears on soft, high-water-content products, this should not be done, even if the signs of mould are minor. Tomatoes and jam are prime examples of such products.

Firmer tomatoes, with less pulp, last longer. Soft, fleshy varieties, such as beef hearts or raspberries, spoil faster and require special attention. It is well known that tomatoes should not be kept in the refrigerator, as they lose flavour in the cold. However, there is an exception. It's better to store them in the fridge when they are already soft and overripe. The cold protects them from spoiling. In other cases, room temperature is preferable.

Remember not to let tomatoes lie directly on each other when arranging tomatoes, for example, in a wicker basket. This will protect them from bruises, which promote faster spoilage. It's also a good idea to go shopping with a basket. And arrange the tomatoes so that their stems do not damage them. Every small hole or piercing of the skin can lead to mould formation.

However, even when you store tomatoes perfectly, an accident can happen. A tomato with signs of mould can be planted even in a balcony pot. But first, seedlings need to be grown. Tomato slices should be placed on moist soil, preferably just the seeds. Initially, ordinary cotton wool will also do.

The plant needs plenty of water, sun, and warmth to germinate. Therefore, it's better to bring the seedlings inside during cold nights. When it gets green in the pot, the seedlings need to be transplanted, preferably individually. It's worth trying because growing your tomatoes is excellent satisfaction.