Vegetable FAQ
Q: Are potatoes nutritious?
A: Yes! Potatoes are a low calorie, fat and cholesterol free vegetable high in vitamin C, potassium and a good source of vitamin B6 and dietary fiber.
Q: Are potatoes fattening?
A: No! It's all those delicious toppings we use that add calories and fat. The potato contains zero fat and a 5.3-ounce potato is only 100 calories.
Q: Is it safe to eat the potato skin?
A: Absolutely! In fact, the skin of the potato contains the majority of the potato's fiber, and many of the nutrients are located close to the skin. Wash the potato thoroughly, cut away green discoloration and/or sprouts and enjoy your potato with the skin on.
Q: What causes some potatoes to have a hollow center and black crust? What is this?
A: This is called "Hollow Heart," which is caused by a sudden change in the growth rate of the potato. This can happen if the potato plant suffers from lack of water during the growing season then receives too much water all at once. Irrigation and the constant diligence of farmers limit this from happening.
Q: Why do sometimes tomatoes crack as they ripen?
A: Tomatoes tend to crack when they receive irregular water. If your tomatoes have gone through a dry spell and you try to make up for it with frequent waterings, the inside of the tomato will plump up faster than the outside can stretch and grow. As a result the outer skin of the tomato splits open or cracks.
Tomatoes that crack are still edible. They just won't keep as long. You can prevent future tomatoes cracking by making sure that they receive water regularly, whether or not it rains. Mulching the area around the tomatoes will also help maintain ground moisture levels. Finally, look for varieties that are resistant to cracking.