Rich red harvest(1/8)

Zhang Jiaqiang, a farmer in Linzi, Shandong province, is picking tomatoes. (Photo by WANG JING/CHINA DAILY)

The annual production of the 'Linzi Tomato' is more than 380,000 tons.

Linzi, Shandong province, is known as the "home of tomatoes" in China.

With an area of about 40,000 mu (2,667 hectares) under production, comprising 30,000 greenhouses, the annual output from the region is 380,000 tons worth 700 million yuan ($104 million).

The "Linzi Tomato" also has geographical indicator, or GI status.

Tomatoes from the eastern province make it to Beijing's supermarkets with 24 hours of being harvested.

Even though Lunar New Year is approaching, the price of tomatoes has not increased significantly as supplies have been sufficient since the end of 2018. Also, tomato production from the northern regions, is expected to cover demand till April when output from the south will start making its way to the markets, keeping prices on an even keel.

The story by Cui Lilai is translated by Zhang Lei.

Workers sort and package tomatoes. (Photo by WANG JING/CHINA DAILY)

Scrambled eggs and tomatoes have long become a national dish for the Chinese. (Photo by WANG JING/CHINA DAILY)

Tomato greenhouses in Zhengjia village, Huangcheng town, Linzi, Shandong province. (Photo by WANG JING/CHINA DAILY)

The farmers record the tomato yield right after the harvest. (Photo by WANG JING/CHINA DAILY)

Tomatoes are being examined to check on seed health. (Photo by WANG JING/CHINA DAILY)

A vegetable transporter's vehicle undergoes inspection before entering Beijing. (Photo by WANG JING/CHINA DAILY)

Fresh tomatoes on sale in a supermarket. (Photo by WANG JING/CHINA DAILY)