Fresh Eyes at the Tomato Harvest
My name is Natali Espindola and I too am a proud consumer of canned tomatoes. From
my hometown of Sacramento, California to my college campus at California Polytechnic State
University in San Luis Obispo, canned tomatoes are a kitchen staple in my life.
I am in my third year at Cal Poly studying Agricultural Business in hopes to pursue a
career in agriculture. My passion for this industry stems from my grandparents and the hard work
they put into growing and harvesting tomato fields in Northern California. Hand picking produce
that would go on to feed the many mouths of America. This dedication has allowed me to have a
great appreciation for the people and the process behind the food we eat.
Why Am I Interested in Tomatoes?
My interest in the tomato industry recently grew after meeting Alec Wasson, who shared
many stories about the hard work, care, and innovation that goes into producing canned
tomatoes. Shortly after, I was given the opportunity to visit the tomato fields in Winters, CA during their harvesting. There I was able to see first hand how quick the process
between picking and transportation to the cannery really was. It was incredible to see how much
innovation has changed the game for agriculture of the last few decades.
After visiting the fields, I took a trip to the canning facility, where I got to see each step
the tomatoes took before being sealed in their can. In less than 12 hours, the tomatoes were
picked, sorted, washed, peeled, cut, packaged, cooled, and ready to ship across California and the
United States. This entire process took science, care, and many hands to produce something that
is truly essential.Watching this process gave me a whole new perspective and appreciation for the quality
and integrity that is behind the scenes of canned tomatoes, a product I never really thought twice
about until after the tours. What many may not realize is these products are not only convenient
household or restaurant items but a reflection of how far modern agricultural efficiency and
sustainability has come.
The Value of Canned Tomatoes
Canned tomatoes are healthy, affordable, and readily available year-round, making them a
key part of the food system nationwide. Not only are they packed with vitamins but they also
help reduce food waste by using tomatoes that may not have been pretty enough to make it to the
fresh markets in your grocery stores.
Going forward, I will be sharing insights about the values of canned tomatoes, in addition
to delicious, easy recipes to share for the up and coming season. My goal is to help more people
appreciate where their food is coming from, understand the agricultural story that is behind each
produce, and celebrate the farmers and workers who make it all possible.
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