In recent times several companies have invested in an important innovation, the production of nickel-free tomatoes. But what does it mean? Are they really free of this metal or is it just a commercial gimmick? And above all: how are they produced? Let’s shed some light on this product which is of particular interest to those who suffer from allergies or sensitivity to nickel.
Nickel: an omnipresent metal
Nickel is a heavy metal naturally present in soil, water and air. Plants absorb it through their roots and, inevitably, it also ends up on our plates. For most people it does not represent a problem, but for those who are allergic or sensitive it can cause reactions even with very low quantities with symptoms such as itching, eczema, swelling, intestinal disorders or headaches.
Among the foods that contain the most there are legumes, cocoa, dried fruit and whole grains, but also some vegetables, including tomatoes, especially if grown in soil rich in nickel.
The presence of nickel in food does not actually depend only on the soil, but also on external factors: areas close to industrial activities or vehicular traffic may have soils richer in this metal; some kitchen utensils such as pots, cans or steel tools can release small amounts of nickel during cooking; finally, industrial transformation processes can contribute to increasing its content in finished products.
Nickel-free tomatoes, what they are and how to grow them
When we find the words “nickel-free tomatoes” on the label, it is actually a simplified way of saying “low nickel content”. In nature, in fact, obtaining a food completely free of this metal is practically impossible.
“Nickel free” tomatoes are simply grown with techniques that minimize nickel absorption, making them more suitable for sensitive people. Reducing the presence of this metal in tomatoes is science and precision agriculture.
Here are the most used strategies:
The result? Tomatoes that taste and look completely normal, but with significantly reduced nickel levels.
But the question many people ask is: are they really safe for those with allergies?
These tomatoes are not “zero risk”, but they can represent a concrete help for those who must follow a low nickel content diet. In case of diagnosed allergies, it is best to always consult your doctor or a nutritionist before introducing them into your diet. In fact, it must be considered that the tolerance threshold for nickel varies greatly from person to person. Some may react to minimal amounts, others may tolerate higher levels.
Where are they located and how much do they cost
For now, low nickel content tomatoes can be found mainly in specialized shops, organic chains and online shops dedicated to food intolerances.
Since it is a product grown in controlled environments and subjected to careful analysis, the price is a little higher than conventional tomatoes, but not so high as to make them inaccessible.
Compared to conventional tomatoes, which can cost between €1.50 and €2.50 per kg, low nickel tomatoes have a premium that varies between €0.50 and €1.50 per kg, depending on the type and producer.
These tomatoes certainly represent a useful innovation, even if they are not a miracle solution. They offer those who must follow a controlled diet the possibility of reintroducing otherwise problematic foods, increasing the variety of meals and improving the quality of life.
