Which Tomato Has the Most Nicotine?
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4 min read
Green, unripe tomatoes contain significantly more nicotine than their red, ripe counterparts, with one study finding that green tomatoes can have up to 10 times more nicotine. This surprising fact reveals a natural chemical defense mechanism within the Solanaceae, or nightshade, plant family, which includes not only tomatoes but also potatoes, peppers, and eggplants. Though the presence of nicotine in tomatoes is scientifically confirmed, the amounts are so minuscule that they pose no health risk and are not comparable to the levels found in tobacco.