Tomato juice

Tomato Juice is a juice made from tomatoes. It is usually used as a beverage, either plain or in cocktails such as a Bloody Mary or Michelada. Tomato juice is also used in cooking for the preparation of sauces and soups.

History

The first commercial production of tomato juice in the United States began in the early 20th century. It was promoted by Louis Perrin, a restaurant owner in French Lick, Indiana, who ran out of orange juice and needed a quick substitute. His combination of squeezed tomatoes, sugar and his special sauce became an instant success.

Production

Tomato juice is made by straining tomatoes, usually of the plum variety, and then heating them for a short period of time to break down the cell walls and allow for the extraction of the juice. The juice is then further strained to remove seeds and skins, and then it is pasteurized or canned.

Nutritional Value

Tomato juice is rich in vitamin C and vitamin A, and also contains significant amounts of vitamin K, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B5, vitamin B6, vitamin B9, and vitamin E. It is also a good source of potassium and magnesium, and contains trace amounts of calcium, iron, and zinc.

Health Benefits

Tomato juice has been associated with several health benefits due to its rich content of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It has been suggested to improve heart health, aid digestion, lower cholesterol levels, and reduce inflammation. However, more research is needed to confirm these potential health benefits.

In Popular Culture

Tomato juice is often associated with air travel as it is one of the most popular non-alcoholic beverages served on airlines. The phenomenon has been studied by researchers who suggest that the low humidity and low pressure in an airplane cabin can make tomato juice taste better.

See Also

• Tomato soup
• Tomato sauce
• V8 (beverage)