What is the pigment responsible for the vibrant red color of the tomato?
Answer
Lycopene
The distinctive, vibrant red coloration characteristic of ripe tomatoes is attributed directly to the presence of the pigment lycopene. Beyond its role as a colorant, lycopene is highly valued for its properties as a potent antioxidant that has been the subject of extensive scientific study regarding its protective qualities against chronic disease. It is important to note that while lycopene is present in raw tomatoes, its availability for the body to utilize is significantly enhanced through specific preparation methods, particularly heating.
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