Influence of cooking procedure on the bioavailability of lycopene in tomatoes

Abstract

Background and objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of raw and processed tomato consumption on plasma lycopene concentration in healthy volunteers. A cross-over dietary intervention study was employed.Patients and methods: Fifteen healthy subjects were included in the study. Plasma lycopene concentration was assayed by HPLC.Results: Raw crushed tomato consumption did not significantly influence plasma lycopene concentration. Consumption of raw crushed tomato with olive oil and cooked tomatoes with olive oil, significantly increased blood lycopene levels.