by Louise Mayfield
Although many different vegetables were grown to feed our family, tomatoes and squash were grown in abundance each year. No matter how tasty these fresh veggies were, it was always a big job to put them all to use. Daddy loved tomatoes (pronounced duh-maters). He loved mayo, tomato, salt and pepper sandwiches on light bread, and ate them regularly. Now, Daddy is gone but my siblings and I still enjoy tomato sandwiches each spring and summer, just like he did. We all still call them “duh-maters” eventhough we’ve all graduated from institutions of higher learning and now live in different parts of the United States.
From back yard gardeners to row-crop farmers, a spring garden is incomplete without a row or two of tomatoes. Tomato season can be a blessing and a challenge for farmers. A bumper crop of fresh, juicy tomatoes is a sign of hard work, farmer’s knowledge, and favorable weather, but it also raises the question: what to do with an abundance of produce? With proper planning and creativity, farmers can turn this surplus into profits, preserved goods, and community support. Here are some practical and profitable ideas for managing a tomato surplus.
Sell Fresh Tomatoes Locally
One of the most straightforward ways to handle an abundance of tomatoes is to sell them locally. Farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs are excellent venues. Highlighting the freshness and quality of your tomatoes can attract customers who value farm-to-table produce. Additionally, forming partnerships with local grocery stores, restaurants, and catering businesses can create a steady market for your tomatoes.
Create variety packs with different tomato types—such as cherry, Roma, and heirloom—to appeal to a range of culinary preferences.
Preserve by Canning
Canning is a time-tested way to extend the life of fresh produce. By offering canned tomatoes, farmers can create shelf-stable products that customers, or your own family can enjoy them year-round. Popular options include:
• Whole peeled tomatoes
• Diced tomatoes
• Tomato paste
• Tomato sauce
Investing in a commercial-grade canning operation allows farmers to sell their preserved products legally and safely. Proper labeling with recipes and serving suggestions can also enhance their appeal.
Make and Sell Salsa
Salsa is a universally loved condiment with endless flavor
possibilities. Fresh salsa, made with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and herbs, can be sold at local markets or through wholesale accounts. For longer shelf life, consider making canned or jarred versions.
Variety Ideas:
• Mild and Hot options
• Fruit-infused salsas (mango or pineapple)
• Specialty blends like roasted tomato or smoky chipotle
salsa
Farmers can build a brand around their salsa products, using attractive packaging and creative names to stand out. Have some friends over for salsa making that can taste-test and help refine your recipe. Quality, freshness and flavor has to be the top priority.
Create Tomato-Based Sauces and Condiments
Beyond salsa, there are many other value-added products that can be made with tomatoes:
• Ketchup: A family-friendly favorite that can be
marketed as a healthier, homemade alternative to
commercial brands.
• Marinara Sauce: Perfect for pasta lovers, marinara sauce
can be customized with herbs and spices to create
unique flavors.
• Relishes: These gourmet condiments pair well with
cheeses and meats, even peas and beans.
Dehydrate Tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes are a premium product with a long shelf life and a high-profit margin. Farmers can use dehydrators or traditional sun-drying methods to create these savory treats. They can be sold plain, seasoned, or packed in oil with herbs.
Freeze Tomatoes for Future Use
Freezing tomatoes is a simple and effective way to preserve their freshness. While frozen tomatoes are not suitable for fresh salads, they work well in soups, sauces, and stews. Farmers can sell frozen tomatoes directly to consumers or use them as ingredients in value-added products later.
Partner with Local Schools and Food Banks
Donating surplus tomatoes to schools, food banks, or community kitchens is a great way to give back. Many organizations are eager to accept fresh produce for their programs. These partnerships can also build goodwill and enhance your farm’s reputation.
Market to Home Canners
Home canners often look for high-quality produce to preserve on their own. Selling tomatoes in bulk directly to these customers can be a win-win situation. Offering discounts for large purchases encourages them to buy more. You can also provide recipes or canning tips to make the experience more accessible for beginners.
Develop a Subscription Box
A subscription box featuring tomatoes and other seasonal produce can create a steady revenue stream. Include recipes, storage tips, and perhaps a few value-added products like salsa or marinara sauce to add variety.
Composting Unusable Tomatoes
Not all tomatoes will be fit for sale or consumption, but they can still be valuable. Composting overripe or damaged tomatoes creates nutrient-rich soil amendments that can improve future crops. Some farmers even sell compost to gardeners and landscapers.
Experiment with New Tomato Products
Innovation is key to standing out in a crowded market. Use your surplus to experiment with:
• Tomato juices and smoothies
• Tomato-based jams and jellies
• Fermented products like tomato kimchi or hot sauce
Gathering customer feedback on these products can guide future decisions and help fine-tune your recipes.
An abundance of fresh tomatoes presents a wealth of opportunities for farmers to diversify their income streams, reduce waste, and connect with their community. By having a mix of fresh sales, value-added products, and innovative uses, farmers can maximize the value of their harvest and avoid wasting any veggies. Whether through local markets, preserved goods, or creative collaborations, the possibilities for tomatoes are as endless as their varieties.
