Benefits of Lycopene

It is a potent inhibitor of human cancer and also reduces the risk of prostate and breast cancer It is a good antioxidant and a natural and stable food-colouring matter; it is also used as a nutrient in supplement tablets for its antioxidant properties. It stops LDL cholesterol from being oxidised by free radicals; further, it cannot be deposited in the plaques that narrow and harden the arteries. It helps prevent diabetes. It prevents age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. It may help prevent osteoporosis.

As per the national standards (BIS & FSS Regulations, 2011), tomato ketchup must contain not less than 25 per cent of total soluble solids. All the brands were found above the minimum

requirement for total soluble solids. TSS was found highest in Weikfield and lowest in Mum’s. Acidity as Acetic Acid Acidity is related to the shelf life of the product. If acidity (acetic acid) is lower than the minimum limit, microbes will begin to grow, allowing contamination of the product and reducing its shelf life. As per the national standards, acidity should be a minimum 1.2 per cent by weight; as per FSS Regulations, it should be a minimum 1.0 per cent. All the brands were well above the minimum requirement set by the Indian Standard as well as FSS Regulations. Carbohydrates Carbohydrates are the sugars, starches and fibres found in fruits, grains and vegetables and milk products. Though often maligned in trendy diets, carbohydrates are one of the basic food groups and are important to a healthy life.

Tomato ketchup is a source of carbohydrates. While some quantity is generally found in the ripened