Fruit peel

The skin protects the tomato from water loss, mechanical damage, and the penetration of pathogens. The fruit’s resistance to cracking and its postharvest shelf life depend not only on the thickness of the skin but also on the structure and mechanical properties of the cuticle and the tissues beneath it. The stage of ripeness and growing conditions are also important. A thin skin often improves eating comfort, but greater thickness alone does not guarantee resistance during transport and storage.