After being picked tomatoes are put through a process before they are released to consumers. Before going through tomato sorting the tomato is thoroughly cleaned. It is washed with water and has brushes that gently remove anything that is on the tomato. It is important that the tomatoes are cleaned so that the consumer can be insured that they are getting a quality product. If tomatoes arrive covered in dirt and bruises when they get to the grocery store there is a chance that the store could end their contract with the tomato farmers. The appearance of the product is often just as important as the quality.