Anyone buying tomatoes in UK supermarkets is being urged to check one thing before deciding which pack to take home. Many shoppers go by colour alone, but food experts say quality depends on factors most people don't even think about, and these can affect how long tomatoes last and how good they taste.

A lot of people also believe tomatoes lose flavour if they're stored in the fridge. But experts say the bigger issue is whether you pick good-quality tomatoes in the first place. If you choose them well, they stay firmer for longer, keep their sweetness and hold their fresh taste when cooked.

This guidance comes from food experts and suppliers at Prambanan Kencana, who work directly with growers and fresh produce.

They say many shoppers simply don't know what to look for and often grab the wrong type of tomatoes.

They have now shared five simple tips to help Brits choose the highest-quality tomatoes in UK supermarkets.

The first thing to look at is colour, which many people already do. Shoppers are told to look for tomatoes that still have a little green near the top or around the base.

Experts say this is normal and actually a good sign that the tomato was picked at the right time. These tomatoes often last longer and develop better flavour when cooked.

Next is the skin. Smooth tomatoes without blemishes are almost always the best option.

Marks, dark spots or cracked skin usually mean the tomato is either overripe or already starting to spoil.

A clean, even surface gives you the best chance of taking home a fresh batch.

They also advise checking the stem area, something most people ignore. Farmers usually leave a small piece of stem when picking tomatoes.

If that stem is bright green, the tomato is fresh. If it has turned brown or black, it's been sitting around too long and may not taste its best.

Texture matters too. A good tomato should feel firm but slightly springy when pressed.

If it feels soft or your finger leaves a dent, it's already past its best. Comparing a few tomatoes in the pack can help you quickly spot the freshest ones.

And finally, shoppers are told to smell the tomato. Fresh tomatoes have a light aroma that smells fruity and slightly grassy. A strong sour smell is a sign it has started to rot.