AGRONOMIC AND QUALITATIVE EVALUATION OF PROCESSING TOMATO CULTIVARS IN TUNISIA

Processing tomatoes are the main vegetable grown and consumed in Tunisia. In 2005, approximately 19 000 hectares of land were dedicated to this crop, producing 930 000 tons of tomatoes, including 730 000 tons destined for the processing industry. Moreover, the average per capita consumption based on fresh weight is the highest in the world. Besides soil, climatic condition and technical itineraries, the choice of appropriate cultivars is one of the most important factors of success for the cultivation of processing tomatoes. In fact, genetic factors linked to the tomato varieties can have considerable influence on various important parameters such as yield potential, resistance to disease and fruit quality. The objectives of tomato variety trials are to evaluate adaptability of developed varieties to local conditions and to identify which best suits the requirements of growers, processors and consumers. The aim of this presentation is to describe the behaviour of different processing tomato cultivars evaluated recently in Tunisia on their both agronomic and technological features (yield, fruit weight, °Brix, pH, titratable acidity, colour, lycopene). The cultivars, including the most commonly grown in Tunisia and their characteristics are presented and discussed; with a special reference to Tunisian environment, cultural practices and market needs constraints. We believe that the final choice to introduce a variety is a balance and a compromise between a whole set of characteristics.