The Veronesi Foundation's good tomato returns in 300 squares

ROME - The third edition of "Il Pomodoro. Good for you, good for research" returns to the squares throughout Italy, the campaign aimed at raising funds to finance the research and treatment of children with cancer in the pediatric field. The initiative, scheduled for 16 and 17 May in 300 squares and conceived by the Umberto Veronesi Foundation, is supported by the National Association of Industrial Vegetable Food Preserves (Anicav) and the National Consortium for the recycling and recovery of steel packaging (Ricrea).

To support the aims of the campaign, silk-screened packs containing three cans of tomatoes, in their peeled, pulp and cherry tomatoes versions, will be distributed for a minimum donation of € 10.

Tomato - explains a note - represents a fundamental ingredient in the Mediterranean diet. The product contains bioactive molecules such as polyphenols, powerful antioxidants, and carotenoids including lycopene, studied as an adjuvant in strengthening the immune system and in preventing certain types of cancer.

The organizers of the initiative report that every year in Italy about 1,400 children between the ages of 0 and 14 and about 800 adolescents between 15 and 19 fall ill with cancer. "During the last edition of this initiative - says the general director of the Umberto Veronesi Foundation Monica Ramaioli - we collected almost 300,000 euros. This year we want to do even more, to finance high-profile scientific research and continue to help over 2,000 children who get cancer every year. "