Fresh Start Blog

Little Red Superfoods: Why Tomatoes Should Be on Your Child’s Plate

Tomatoes, those juicy red orbs that grace our salads and sandwiches, are more than just a tasty addition to meals. They’re packed with nutrients that are essential for growing bodies and developing minds. At Fresh Start Catering, we love incorporating tomatoes into our delicious and healthy school meals. Here’s why:

Nutritional Powerhouses:

Tomatoes are bursting with goodness, including:

  • Vitamin C: This vital vitamin boosts the immune system, helps the body absorb iron, and is crucial for healthy skin and gums.
  • Vitamin A: Important for healthy vision, skin, and growth.
  • Potassium: This mineral helps maintain healthy blood pressure and supports nerve and muscle function.
  • Lycopene: A powerful antioxidant that gives tomatoes their red colour. Lycopene may protect against certain cancers and heart disease.
  • Fiber: Aids digestion and helps children feel full and satisfied.

Benefits for Growing Children:

Here’s why tomatoes are a fantastic addition to your child’s diet:

  • Strong Bones: Vitamin K in tomatoes contributes to healthy bone development, crucial for active and growing kids.
  • Healthy Vision: Vitamin A supports good eyesight, essential for learning and play.
  • Boosted Immunity: Vitamin C helps fight off colds and infections, keeping kids healthy and active.
  • Improved Digestion: Fiber aids digestion and prevents constipation, a common issue in children.
  • Hydration: Tomatoes have a high water content, contributing to your child’s daily fluid intake.

Fun Ways to Serve Tomatoes:

Getting kids to eat their veggies can be a challenge, but tomatoes are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:

  • Raw: Cherry tomatoes are perfect for snacking or adding to lunchboxes.
  • Cooked: Add chopped tomatoes to pasta sauces, soups, and stews.
  • Sauces: Homemade tomato sauce is a healthy and delicious alternative to store-bought versions.
  • Dips: Tomato salsa is a fun and flavourful dip for vegetables or whole-grain crackers.

Fresh Start Catering and Tomatoes:

At Fresh Start Catering, we understand the importance of providing children with nutritious and delicious meals. We incorporate tomatoes into our menus in a variety of ways, from fresh salads to homemade pasta sauces. Our commitment to fresh, local ingredients ensures that the tomatoes we use are of the highest quality, providing maximum flavour and nutritional value for your children.

Encourage your child to enjoy the goodness of tomatoes today!