British Tomato Fortnight: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about British Tomato Fortnight (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. British Tomato Fortnight is observed on June 22nd.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of British Tomato Fortnight, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as captivating facts you need know about British Tomato Fortnight.

📅 What day is British Tomato Fortnight 2024?

In 2024, British Tomato Fortnight is on Thursday, June 22nd. It is the 4th Thursday in June; in 2024, it is Saturday. There are until the next observance. You also can view all the fun details and facts about June 22, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

The British Tomato Fortnight is an annual event that spans over 14 days. It usually starts on the Monday of the last full week in May and concludes on a Sunday. For instance, this year it will take place from May 22 to June 4.

📜 British Tomato Fortnight History

Tomatoes originated in the Andes and were first cultivated by the Incas and Aztecs around 700 A.D. The term “tomato” comes from the Aztec word “tomatl.” To ensure a steady supply of high-quality tomatoes, producers work year-round. Many tomatoes are grown in greenhouses, which offer a controlled environment and minimize the use of pesticides. Glass greenhouses were initially developed in Kent and Essex.

Despite the British consuming over 500,000 tons of fresh tomatoes annually, only one-fifth of these tomatoes are grown domestically. The rest are imported. The British Tomato Fortnight, in partnership with the British Tomato Growers’ Association, aims to change this by 2030.

During this two-week event, consumers are educated about the benefits of consuming locally grown fruit, including its positive impact on the environment. Tomato growers strive to reduce their environmental footprint by implementing advanced techniques and technology. They use sustainable energy sources, such as smart water recycling and LED lighting. Natural predators are employed for pest control, and native UK bumblebees are responsible for pollination. Sustainability is a key focus during the British Tomato Fortnight.

✅ British Tomato Fortnight Facts

🔖 Tomatoes are fruit
Despite being classified as a fruit, tomatoes are commonly consumed as if they were vegetables.

🔖 There are thousands of varieties
Over 15,000 distinct kinds of tomatoes have been documented, with over 3,000 belonging to the heirloom or legacy category.

🔖 Tomatoes were thought to be poisonous
Lycopersicon, also known as wolf peach, is the scientific term used for the cultivated tomato. This name originated from the belief that tomatoes were poisonous.

👍 Why Is British Tomato Fortnight Important

British Tomato Fortnight’s mission is to help local tomato producers and the tomato industry. If we continue to support the sector, it will continue to thrive and, eventually, the UK will no longer need to import tomatoes.

British Tomato Fortnight teaches us about the origins of our food. Nowadays, most of our food and vegetables go through lengthy processing and may even be chemically altered.

British Tomato Fortnight places a strong emphasis on sustainability and sustainable farming techniques.

🙂 How To Observe British Tomato Fortnight

⚡ Buy locally grown tomatoes

⚡ Plant tomatoes
Spend the next two weeks tending to your tomato garden. Cultivating a garden full of fresh tomatoes not only adds to your enjoyment, but also has numerous health benefits due to their rich nutrient content.

⚡ Cook recipes that use tomatoes
Buy locally grown tomatoes to support your local farmers. Food supplied locally requires less preparation and processing. Also, small farmers usually try to sell their crops as soon as they are ready.

📅 When is British Tomato Fortnight?

You can view all 🔗 June holidays, including 🔗 Food & Beverage and other 🔗 Appreciation holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and fun facts about British Tomato Fortnight. So be sure to check back soon.