Evaluation of tomato textural mechanical properties

► We investigated the texture of fresh tomato at different ripening stages. ► The firmness of maturing tomatoes was constant. ► During ripening, the firmness and strain increased by increase of applied force. ► The peel contributed around 70% of the firmness at maturing, and 90% at ripening. ► The degree of elasticity was superior indicator for elasticity to relaxation ratio.