Purpose of reviewThis review presents the latest experimental and clinical research focussing on the relationship between the intake of tomato products and lycopene supplementation and carcinogenesis, with the aim of drawing conclusions for concepts of clinical nutritional support.Recent findingsApart from the preventative role of tomato products/lycopene intake there is evidence that oral supplementation of these compounds in cancer patients may also improve the biomarkers of carcinogenesis and reduce tumour growth. New experimental studies in animal models provide insights concerning the potential mechanism(s).SummaryAlthough the first clinical trials are promising, it is too early to make final recommendations for nutritional therapy in cancer patients. Whether the bioactive compound in tomatoes is lycopene or whether other substrates contribute to the beneficial physiological effects is still unclear.