Only with caution — tomatoes carries real risks for alpacas.
Ripe tomato flesh is low risk, but the plant and green fruit contain tomatine/solanine.
- Verdict
- With caution
- Serving size
- 1-2 slices of ripe tomato at most
- Preparation
- Ripe red fruit only; never leaves, stems or green tomatoes.
- Food group
- Vegetable
- Sugar per 100 g
- 2.6 g
Risks to know
- Nightshade family: leaves, stems and green parts contain solanine
Nutrition facts (per 100 g)
| Nutrient | Amount | What it means for alpacas |
|---|---|---|
| Water | 94.5 g | Hydrating |
| Energy | 18 kcal | Low calorie |
| Sugars | 2.6 g | Low sugar |
| Fiber | 1.2 g | Low fiber |
| Protein | 0.9 g | |
| Fat | 0.2 g | |
| Calcium | 10 mg | |
| Phosphorus | 24 mg | |
| Vitamin C | 13.7 mg | Not required — camelids make their own |
Source: USDA FoodData Central, SR Legacy — “Tomatoes, red, ripe, raw, year round average” (FDC ID 170457).
Sugar compared with other treats
Grams of sugar per 100 g. Lower-sugar treats are kinder to the fore-stomach microbes and waistline.
Safer alternatives
ArtichokeIn moderationArugulaIn moderationAsparagusIn moderationBeetsIn moderationBell PeppersIn moderationBok ChoyIn moderation
Frequently asked questions
Can alpacas eat tomatoes?
Only with caution — tomatoes carries real risks for alpacas. Ripe tomato flesh is low risk, but the plant and green fruit contain tomatine/solanine.
How much tomatoes can I give my alpaca?
1-2 slices of ripe tomato at most. Treats should stay under about 5% of the diet.
How should I prepare tomatoes for alpacas?
Ripe red fruit only; never leaves, stems or green tomatoes.
How much sugar is in tomatoes?
About 2.6 g of sugar per 100 g (USDA FoodData Central).
Can baby alpacas (crias) eat it?
Crias should get milk, then hay and pasture. Hold off on treats until they are weaned and eating forage well, and always use tiny pieces.
See the complete list of foods alpacas can and can't eat, our feeding guide and the toxic plant checker.
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a veterinarian who has examined your animals. Camelid medicine uses many drugs “extra-label”, so dosing must come from your vet. In an emergency, call your vet first. Read our disclaimer · How we write and review content.