When fresh tomatoes are eaten

  • In the last year there were 2.7 billion occasions of fresh tomato consumption in the home

  • That represents a 1.5% decrease on last year

  • 2% of all fresh tomatoes consumed are organic

  • Adults aged 45+ are the core consumers of fresh tomatoes, accounting for 62% of occasions

  • Females aged 45+ account for 37% of all fresh tomato consumption occasions

  • Kids 0-16 and young adults 17-24 are all less likely to consume fresh tomatoes than they are other foods

  • 22% of fresh tomatoes are eaten hot, with 8% being grilled

  • Lunch and the evening meal are the key occasions for the consumption of fresh tomatoes, accounting for 76% of consumption. However, consumption at both of these occasions has declined year on year - by 4.4% and 2.4% respectively

  • 6-7pm is the key period for consumption of fresh tomatoes. Some 22% are consumed during this one-hour slot

  • With sandwich consumption increasing there may be an opportunity to encourage the use of fresh tomatoes, possibly by introducing flavoured fresh tomatoes or ready sliced

    Produced for The Grocer by TNS.

    Year to May 2004. For more information call 01372 825770. Next week: BANANAS