Updated October 23, 2026, 10:40 a.m. ET
Those of us who enjoy them know that cherry tomatoes on a salad can elevate the dish to the next level; that slices of steak tomato can turn a plain sandwich into lunch; or that Roma tomato puree makes the perfect base for a pasta or pizza sauce.
Indeed, part of the appeal of tomatoes is that there’s a version for almost every occasion, making them “incredibly versatile and accessible,” says Alex Larson, registered dietitian, nutritionist for endurance athletes, and founder of Alex Larson Nutrition.
Tomatoes also offer great nutritional value – and without a lot of calories. But is it worth eating tomatoes every day? And when you’re trying to eat more, do you look in the fruit or vegetable section of the produce aisle?
Here’s what you need to know about their classification, the nutrients they provide, and the potential downsides of eating tomatoes.
What are tomatoes? Are tomatoes a fruit?
Botanically, “tomatoes are classified as fruits,” says Abbie Gellman, a New York-based registered dietitian and chef, because they grow from a flower and contain seeds.
Vegetable etiquette comes from how we eat them, she explains. Because tomatoes are generally less sweet than most fruits, Gellman says, “they are often considered vegetables.” They are also commonly accompanied by savory foods such as salads and pastas, which is why the USDA classifies them as vegetables for culinary purposes.
And in an 1893 decision regarding import duties, the United States Supreme Court also classified tomatoes as vegetables based on their common usage rather than using their botanical definition.
In other words, putting tomatoes in the vegetable section of the produce aisle at your favorite grocery store doesn’t contradict science — it just follows the way people cook and shop, Larson says.
Are tomatoes good for you?
But no matter where you find them at the grocery store, tomatoes provide many nutrients that support several functions in the body, “and they offer a particularly impressive set of them given their simplicity and affordability,” says Larson.
Among their nutritional offerings, she says “lycopene stands out.” It’s the pigment that gives many tomatoes their red color, and research has linked tomato-derived lycopene to improved blood pressure.
Gellman also highlights vitamin C, B6 and niacin among the vitamins tomatoes contain. Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron, supports immune function and helps it make collagen. And vitamin B6 plays a role in metabolism and immune function, while niacin helps turn food into energy and supports cellular function. Tomatoes also contain minerals such as magnesium and potassium, the former supporting nerve function, while the latter improves muscle function and helps “help regulate blood pressure,” says Larson.
And one medium raw tomato provides about 1.5 grams of fiber, which supports digestion, helps regulate blood sugar, and may improve feelings of fullness.
Best of all, tomatoes provide all of this for a surprisingly low number of calories – about 22 per average raw tomato. And because tomatoes are low in calories and high in water and fiber, Larson says, they can be especially helpful for healthy weight management.
Can you eat tomatoes every day?
Although “for most people, tomatoes are a great addition to a regular diet,” says Larson, there are some downsides to consider. The most common is acid reflux, because “tomatoes are naturally acidic,” she says. For this reason, people suffering from heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, may experience a worsening of their symptoms. If tomatoes trigger symptoms for you, Gellman advises paying attention to whether raw tomatoes, concentrated sauce, or serving size make a difference.
Larson also advises people taking certain blood pressure medications, “especially certain diuretics,” to discuss their tomato consumption with a clinician because of the potassium content. People with advanced kidney disease may also need to limit potassium-rich foods, including tomatoes, if their kidneys have trouble eliminating excess potassium.
Many packaged or canned sauces, soups, and other tomato products can also contain a considerable amount of sodium. So Gellman recommends comparing labels or choosing no-salt-added versions, if available.
As long as you keep these considerations in mind, “tomatoes are a wonderful addition to a healthy diet,” says Gellman, “helping us stay full and satisfied.”
Gn Health
