Can unripe tomatoes be eaten?
Today while cooking in the kitchen, I noticed some tomatoes that hadn't fully turned red and seemed somewhat unripe. I usually cut tomatoes into pieces and mix them into salads, but I'm not sure whether these unripe ones are safe to eat. Could you please tell me whether unripe tomatoes can be consumed?
Doctor's answer (1)
In general, it is not recommended to eat unripe tomatoes.
Unripe tomatoes contain solanine, a toxic alkaloid. When the human body ingests excessive amounts of solanine, it may trigger poisoning reactions. Symptoms of poisoning typically include itching and a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, followed by possible gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it may even affect the nervous system, causing dizziness, headache, and fatigue.
As tomatoes ripen, the solanine content gradually decreases. Ripe tomatoes have very low levels of solanine, which generally pose no threat to human health. Additionally, unripe tomatoes have a sour and astringent taste, a firmer texture, and an overall unpleasant eating experience. Moreover, their nutritional components are not as easily absorbed by the body as those of ripe tomatoes.
Therefore, to ensure food safety and proper nutrient intake, it is recommended to consume tomatoes only when they are fully ripe. If you accidentally eat a small amount of unripe tomatoes, serious problems generally won't occur. However, if symptoms of discomfort appear, prompt medical attention should be sought.
