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| - Last Updated on December 2, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that snakebites can cause holes in tomatoes and make them poisonous. We did the fact check and termed this claim as false.
The Claim
According to a viral Facebook post, “Tomatoes with small holes are caused by snakebites, making them unsafe to eat due to potential poison contamination.”
Fact Check
Are small holes in tomatoes caused by snakebites?
No, small holes in tomatoes are not caused by snakebites. The holes in tomatoes are often caused by insects or pests such as tomato fruitworm, tomato hornworms, tomato weevils, or beetles, which feed on the fruit. These pests can create small punctures or holes as they consume the tomato. In some cases, fungal or bacterial infections can also cause small holes as the fruit decays. Snakes do not eat tomatoes, and their bite marks wouldn’t look like the evenly spaced, tiny holes seen in viral images. Snakes are carnivorous and are not interested in fruits or plants like tomatoes.
Can snake venom contaminate fruits like tomatoes?
No, snake venom cannot contaminate fruits or vegetables. Snake venom affects the tissues, blood, or nervous systems of animals. It doesn’t spread through plant material. For venom to have any effect, it needs to interact directly with living tissue. Even if a snake did bite a tomato, the venom would not survive in the fruit because it breaks down quickly when exposed to air or a non-living surface.
Is it safe to eat tomatoes with small holes?
Yes, but make sure to inspect and clean them thoroughly first. Tomatoes with small holes can still be safe to eat if you carefully inspect them and remove the damaged parts. The holes usually mean insects have been feeding on the fruit, which could lead to spoilage. If you see any mould, decay, or the tomato has an odd smell or slimy texture, it’s best to discard it. Washing the tomato under running water can also help remove dirt or any surface contaminants.
We connected with Dr Swati Dave, PhD in Food and Nutrition, to learn about the safety of tomatoes with holes. She says, “Tomatoes with small holes are generally safe to eat, as long as you inspect them carefully. If the damage is minor and there are no signs of mould or decay, simply cut out the affected areas. Always wash the tomato thoroughly to remove any dirt or pests before eating. If it is overly damaged, discard it.”
We also reached out to Deepalakshmi Sriram, Registered Dietitian at The Cleft & Craniofacial Centre and Sree Balaji Medical College & Hospital, Chennai, to know whether it is safe to eat tomatoes with holes. She states, “Small holes in tomatoes are usually caused by insects, not anything dangerous like snakebites. As long as the tomato looks fresh and doesn’t show signs of rot or mould, it’s perfectly fine to eat. Just remove the damaged parts and wash the fruit well before consuming.”
We have also debunked another claim about tomatoes, which suggests that rubbing them can naturally shrink pores.
What should you do if you find such damaged tomatoes?
Follow basic food safety steps and trust reliable sources.
- Inspect: Check for signs of pests, mould, or decay.
- Clean: Wash the fruit thoroughly to remove dirt and possible contamination.
- Cut and discard: Remove any damaged parts and discard tomatoes that look spoiled.
- Trust experts: If you’re unsure, consult trusted sources or agricultural experts.
While tomatoes are nutritious and beneficial for health, claims such as “tomatoes during pregnancy can ensure a healthy baby” are somewhat exaggerated.
THIP Media Take
The claim that snakebites can cause holes in tomatoes and make them poisonous is completely false. Holes in tomatoes are usually caused by pests or natural decay, not snakebites. While it’s important to practice food safety, there’s no reason to fear venom contamination in fruits. Let’s focus on debunking these myths and sharing accurate information to help make healthier, informed food choices.
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