US: New sticker heralds benefits of higher lycopene

Bejo Seeds, Inc. has been promoting the health benefits of its Tasti-Lee brand of tomatoes. In addition to the well-recognized benefits of Vitamin C and potassium, all tomatoes also contain lycopene. However studies have shown that the Tasti-Lee variety contains up to 50% more lycopene levels than traditional varieties. This is due to both breeding and the way Tasti-Lee tomatoes are grown – outdoors in rich, healthy soil, with fresh air and clean water until they are vine-ripened by natural sunshine.

According to the Mayo Clinic, lycopene is a carotenoid that has been identified as an antioxidant with the potential for several health benefits. There have been numerous studies that correlate high intake of lycopene with reduced incidents of both cancer and heart disease. However, these studies have so far not been able to make definitive conclusions on how much lycopene is needed and just how beneficial lycopene may be versus the other vitamins in tomatoes.

Recently, a new study was published to help solve these open questions. On October 9, 2012, Neurology – the most widely read and highly cited peer-reviewed neurology journal – published a study that concluded a high serum concentration of lycopene obtained from consuming tomatoes decreases the risk of stroke in men.

Bejo Seeds will unveil its new “High Lycopene” package sticker at the PMA “Fresh Summit” show in Anaheim, CA, Booth 2838.

For more information:
Jeff Trickett
Bejo Seeds Inc.
Tel: +1 805 473 2199
j.trickett@bejoseeds.com