Europeans were scared of eating tomatoes when they were first introduced

Europeans were scared of eating tomatoes when they were first introduced.

The tomato, a staple ingredient in many European cuisines today, was actually feared by Europeans when it was first introduced. While it may seem strange now, back in the 16th century, tomatoes were initially met with apprehension and skepticism by Europeans. This fear of tomatoes lasted for more than 200 years, and there were various reasons behind this unusual aversion.

One of the main factors contributing to Europeans’ fear of tomatoes was their physical appearance. At first glance, tomatoes resemble some poisonous berries, such as the nightshade plant, which can be fatal if ingested. The similarity in appearance caused Europeans to associate tomatoes with toxicity and danger. This misconception created a negative perception of tomatoes, further fueling the fear surrounding them.

Furthermore, during the initial introduction of tomatoes to Europe, there were several cases of illness and even deaths attributed to consuming the fruit. However, what Europeans failed to realize was that the actual cause of these health issues was the lead content in their pewter plates and utensils. The high acid content of tomatoes reacted with the lead, resulting in lead poisoning. Unfortunately, the blame was misplaced on the tomatoes themselves, leading to widespread fear and avoidance.

During this time, there were also social and cultural factors influencing the fear of tomatoes. Tomatoes were initially associated with witchcraft and black magic due to their vibrant red color and the misconception that they were poisonous. This association with witchcraft reinforced the negative perception of tomatoes and added to the fear surrounding them.

Additionally, the fear of eating tomatoes was prevalent among the upper class of Europeans. The lower class, on the other hand, showed little hesitancy in consuming tomatoes, as they considered them to be a cheap and easily accessible food source. This divide further contributed to the stigma surrounding tomatoes and slowed down their acceptance among the upper echelons of society.

It wasn’t until the late 18th century that Europeans started to overcome their fear of tomatoes. One of the turning points was the influence of Italian immigrants in the 19th century, who introduced Italian cuisine to different parts of Europe. Italian dishes prominently featured tomatoes, and their delicious flavors and culinary significance gradually changed Europeans’ perception of this fruit.

In conclusion, the fear of eating tomatoes when they were first introduced to Europe was a result of various factors, including their physical appearance, health issues resulting from lead poisoning, misconceptions related to witchcraft, and social class divides. However, over time, with the influence of Italian cuisine and a better understanding of the fruit’s nutritional value, Europeans eventually embraced the tomato as an essential ingredient in their culinary traditions.

Source: Smithsonian Magazine