[eslaught]

I agree in general, but in this case you can prove it for yourself by growing your own tomatoes (or whatever works in your climate) and comparing it to what you get in the store.

At least in California, the difference is often night and day.

[yellowapple]

Well that's a bit cheaty, I think. California's an agricultural powerhouse for good reason: lots of sunshine, temperate climate, rich soil, decent amount of water (droughts notwithstanding).

Having an orchard at home, at neighbors'/friends' homes, etc. is one of the few things I miss about growing up in the Central Valley.

[distances]

It's not only California. I grew up a bit south of the Arctic Circle, home-grown tomatoes up there are also leaps and bounds tastier than the supermarket stuff. Of course the time window for your own tomatoes is very limited so it's just an autumn delicacy.