Tomatoes
Last updated: February 10, 2026
Table of Contents
Quick Summary
Tomatoes Fruit rich in lycopene and other antioxidants.
What It Is
Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) are fruits (botanically) providing vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants in dog food. Fresh tomatoes contain approximately 95% moisture, 4g carbohydrate, 1g protein, minimal fat, and 1.2g fiber per 100g. Tomatoes are exceptionally rich in lycopene—powerful antioxidant giving tomatoes red color and providing anti-cancer, heart health, and anti-inflammatory benefits. They provide vitamins C, K, potassium, folate, and beta-carotene. Tomatoes are nightshade family vegetables alongside potatoes and eggplants. IMPORTANT: Ripe red tomatoes are safe; green tomatoes and tomato plants (leaves, stems) contain solanine and tomatine—toxic compounds. Commercial dog food uses ripe tomatoes only. In dog food amounts (small quantities), tomatoes are safe and beneficial.
Compare to Similar Ingredients
- vs. dried tomato pomace: Whole tomatoes provide full nutrition (lycopene, vitamins, moisture); tomato pomace is dried byproduct (skins, pulp, seeds after juice extraction). Pomace has concentrated fiber but less lycopene and vitamins. Whole tomatoes are premium; pomace is economical fiber source. Both safe, but whole tomatoes more nutritious.
Why It's Used in Dog Products
Tomatoes appear in dog food for exceptional lycopene content (antioxidant), vitamins C and K, fiber, and whole-food nutrition. They signal premium ingredients and health-conscious formulation. Marketing appeal—'with tomatoes' suggests fresh produce. In small amounts typically used, tomatoes provide genuine antioxidant benefits. Premium brands include tomatoes for lycopene and vitamins, not just marketing.
Nutritional Profile
Quality Considerations
When evaluating tomatoes in dog products, it's important to understand antioxidant content, phytonutrients, and whole food nutrition. This ingredient's quality and appropriateness can vary significantly based on sourcing, processing, and the specific formula it's used in.
Beneficial antioxidants but avoid green parts and stems (toxic).
Potential Concerns
Ripe red tomatoes are safe for dogs in moderation. Main concern: green tomatoes, tomato leaves, and stems contain solanine and tomatine—toxic compounds causing digestive upset, lethargy, or toxicity in large amounts. Commercial dog food uses only ripe red tomatoes (safe). Tomatoes are acidic—excessive amounts could cause digestive upset in sensitive dogs, though dog food amounts are minimal and safe. Tomato allergies are rare but possible. Otherwise, ripe tomatoes in food amounts are safe and beneficial.
Contraindications
- NEVER feed green tomatoes or tomato plants (leaves, stems)—contain toxic solanine/tomatine
- Dogs with sensitive digestion may not tolerate acidic foods in large amounts (food amounts safe)
- Rare tomato allergies
Acceptable in ripe fruit form. Good lycopene source.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are tomatoes safe for dogs?
Yes, ripe red tomatoes are safe and beneficial for dogs in moderation, like the small amounts used in dog food. Ripe tomatoes provide exceptional lycopene (antioxidant for heart health, anti-cancer benefits), vitamins C and K, potassium, and fiber. However, green tomatoes and tomato plants (leaves, stems) contain solanine and tomatine—toxic compounds causing digestive upset or toxicity. Commercial dog food uses only ripe red tomatoes, which are completely safe. Small amounts of ripe tomatoes provide genuine health benefits. Avoid feeding green tomatoes or allowing dogs to eat tomato plants. In dog food formulas, ripe tomatoes are safe and nutritious.
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