Is Tomato a Fruit or Vegetable?

Have you ever wondered “Is tomato a fruit or a vegetable?” This confusion arises because a tomato has different definitions and usage. Before we figure out what a tomato is, there are some definitions that tell the difference between a fruit and a vegetable.

Fruits are those parts of a plant that bear seeds. This definition is according to scientists. Chefs define fruits as those parts of a plant that are edible and have a sweet flavor. On the other hand, vegetables are the edible parts of a plant with a savory flavor. Scientists do not have any specific definition for vegetables.

By using these definitions, you can get the answer of whether a tomato is a fruit or a vegetable.

According To Scientists: Is Tomato A Fruit?

According to scientists, a tomato is a fruit because tomatoes are the part of the tomato plant that bears seeds. Tomato is a true fruit because it is developed from the ovary that is at the base of a flower. Also, it contains the seeds of the plant.

(Image Courtesy: Smithsonian)

According To Chefs

Tomato is a vegetable according to cooks. They consider it to be a vegetable because it is the edible part of the tomato plant that is savory. Tomatoes are used in savory dishes rather than in sweet dishes. Because of this, cooks consider tomato to be a vegetable.

Fruits That Are Actually Vegetables  

There are many fruits that have disguised themselves as vegetables. Fruits that are actually vegetables include cucumber, bell peppers, and corns. Also, there are many vegetables that are considered as fruits. These include eggplant, avocado, pumpkin, green peas, olives, and okra.

(Image Courtesy: Vegetables)

Recommend: Is Cucumber A Fruit or Vegetable?

Conclusion - Is Tomato A Fruit or Vegetable

From all the definitions and the uses for a tomato, we can conclude that a tomato is both- a fruit and a vegetable. So the next time someone asks “what is a tomato? ” you can support your claim through this article.

More On: The Different Types of Tomatoes

Did you find this article interesting and informative? Are you clear about a tomato’s identity now? Or are you still confused? Let us know your opinion, and if you liked this, please let us know in the comments section below.

(Featured Image Courtesy: Financial Tribunes)