AUGUSTA – The sixth annual Maine Tomato Tasting Month runs through August at sites throughout the state. Tastings will be held at farmers’ markets, farm stands and retail stores that sell locally grown tomatoes.

Some tastings compare locally grown tomatoes to those imported from around the world, while others compare older (heirloom) and newer varieties.

Department of Agriculture Commissioner Seth Bradstreet said he encourages Maine residents to expand their menu horizons with fresh Maine tomatoes. Today tomatoes are turning up in recipes from pudding to pancakes. “Tomatoes aren’t just for salads anymore,” Bradstreet said in a press release.

Tomatoes are cholesterol free and rich in vitamins A and C and fiber. An average-sized tomato (148 grams or 5 ounces) contains 35 calories. New medical research suggests that the consumption of lycopene – the substance that gives tomatoes their red color – may prevent cancer.

Lycopene is part of the family of pigments called carotenoids, which are natural compounds that color fruits and vegetables. Like essential amino acids, they are not produced by the human body. Lycopene is the most powerful antioxidant in the carotenoid family and, with vitamins C and E, protects us from the free radicals that degrade many parts of the body, the department of Agriculture press release said.

Look for tomato tasting signs indicating sampling sites at local farm stands, farmers’ markets or grocery stores, or find locations at www.getrealmaine.com.