The Importance of Color in Tomato Breeding

Color can tell you a lot about your tomatoes. The color of any type of tomato develops with its ripeness, demonstrating at a glance whether it's ready for processing and sale or if it needs more time.

When you breed tomatoes for sale, your consumers want to bite into something bright, juicy, and delicious every time. You need a reliable way to gauge color accuracy.

What Color Are Tomatoes?

When most people picture a tomato, a large, red, juicy one probably comes to mind, or maybe a smaller green one, ready for frying. In reality, there are many species of tomato with variations similar to apples. Search in the right place, and you'll find yellow, orange, purple, pink, burgundy, and many more options to supply your consumers with something new and unique.

Whichever tomatoes you choose to grow, consistency is key. Regular size and color in tomatoes reassure your customers that their quality and taste will be consistent as well.

Tomato Breeding Methods

When breeding tomatoes for color, the key aspect to focus on is their carotenoids. In one study of heritage tomato varieties, the highest carotenoid levels we found in red tomatoes and the lowest levels in yellow tomatoes. Tangerine tomatoes displayed moderate amounts.

High levels of carotenoids contribute to radiation protection and vitamin development. Carotenoids also encourage faster propagation. As you breed new tomato plants, note that it may take two or three generations to start yielding the results you expect.

Pigmentation in Types of Tomato Plants

The more tomato plants you breed, the more you can understand how certain combinations yield the results you want, allowing you to achieve better plant consistency. Still, there are bound to be minor color variations that affect consumer confidence. The best solution is to ensure that only the color-correct tomatoes reach the market.

Since colors look different to everyone, it's best to gauge color using a scientific method like colorimetry testing. A well-tested colorimeter will help you decide whether any tomato is ready for sale.

Invest in Color Measurement Solutions From HunterLab

Your tomato selection should ensure a consistent experience for new patrons and longtime connoisseurs alike. HunterLab's collection of spectrophotometers can help you gauge color accuracy from anywhere and encourage trust and profits in your reliable brand.