Why Buying USA-Grown Tomato Products Matters

Why Buying USA-Grown Tomato Products Matters

Why Buying USA-Grown Tomato Products Matters

Where our food comes from has a huge impact, not only on the quality of the food we eat, but on our local economy and the farmers who grow our food. Learn more about why buying USA-grown tomato products matters with this informative blog.

Every visit to the grocery store or a restaurant is a chance for you to voice which products and companies you want to support. We vote with our food dollars. Do you want organic, less sugar, more flavors or lower prices? Your votes are tabulated through your purchases and ultimately your options/quality of products will improve. What about the country of origin? Why should this matter to a busy shopper who is just trying to put food on the table? Because where our food comes from has a huge impact, not only on the quality of the food we eat, but on our local economy and the farmers who grow our food.

Know what you’re getting! 

In a recent documentary “Empire of ‘Red Gold” the filmmaker set out to learn about the tomato products industry globally. He went to China, Italy, and California, the three largest growers of processed tomatoes. In China, he found pollution, terrible worker conditions, fraud and corruption with surprisingly similar issues in Italy. In fact, the legitimacy of so-called “San Marzano” tomato products exported to the U.S. has been often questioned. The issue is more well known regarding imported Olive Oil but is very similar. This has even been called out by the Italians themselves, who have been quoted as saying that as much as 95% of the “San Marzano” tomatoes being imported to America are not actually from the San Marzano Region at all. Questions abound about what is being added and where the tomatoes really come from. Indeed, in the documentary Empire of Red Gold, they found Chinese canned tomatoes being shipped to Italy and then being relabeled as Italian. When you buy American-grown canned tomatoes and tomato products, you can be confident that standards of sustainability, worker justice, safety, and over-all proud production practices are followed.

Quality: 

Everyone has heard the lore of “San Marzano” tomatoes from Italy. The celebrities on cooking shows or online often recommend them, but why? In many blind taste tests the USA-grown tomatoes are crowned the winner. People are often surprised by this, but it just comes down to marketing. So, like all things, it’s important to question the hype. You may favor one brand of tomato products over another—often it’s because you may have grown up with your grandma making “Sunday gravy” with that brand, but discover for yourself your own favorite brand. It’s important to not fall prey to the marketing hype or some celebrity that says you need to pay more for tomatoes shipped across the globe when the world’s best tomatoes are grown in our very own country. When the Bon Appétit Test Kitchen set out to make the perfect pizza sauce, they were SHOCKED when they discovered that the USA grown tomato product they tested far outshined any of the 10+ imported “San Marzano” canned tomatoes.

 

Global Impact: 

Surveys show that more than half of Americans consider sustainability when making food purchases. So, as we continue to learn more about the importance of sustainability and the global environmental footprint associated with our food choices, it emphasizes the urgency of purchasing foods that are produced locally, rather than those grown on the opposite side of the globe. Foods that are produced far away and are transported long distances produce a higher carbon footprint, which impacts climate change. Just think of how much fossil fuel it requires to ship tomato products from Italy or China, compared to simply purchasing products that are grown in the United States. Indeed, the sunny climate and rich soil in many parts of America are well suited for producing tomatoes, which is why they may be grown in family-owned farms with lower agricultural inputs than many other locations. It’s greener to purchase USA-grown tomatoes than fancy imported tomatoes, not to mention it’s better for your pocketbook.

Local Impact with USA-Grown Tomato Products: 

So, now you know how to read beyond marketing myths, actual taste differences, and global impact. But keep in mind what really matters the most: USA farmers. Right now the farmers that grow our food are struggling with global trade wars, tariffs, and increased costs up and down the supply chain. The people who get hit the hardest are the thousands of family farms and the workers that they employ, and the local economies built around agriculture that struggle to make a living feeding America. When you make your choice at the grocery store, you essentially decide who you will support: Either American farms and the communities they support, or foreign countries with questionable oversight, food safety, worker and health regulations, and often an inferior product.

 

When you buy USA-grown tomato products, this is who you’re supporting:

So when you’re making decisions for your family, going out to eat or picking out which canned tomato to buy, or ready to use marinara sauces on the retail shelf, frozen pizzas, lasagna in the freezer section, ketchup, salsa, etc remember the American families that are growing this food and decide who you want to support. Do the right thing! Buy local, delicious, USA-grown tomato products.

 


We are the voice of the tomato products industry. We love all things healthy, nutritious, delicious, and tomato!

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Zucchini Rollups

Zucchini Rollups

Are you on the hunt for healthy zucchini recipes that are not only delicious but also versatile for all seasons? Look no further! These Zucchini Rollups are a delightful and nutritious option that combines the goodness of fresh zucchini with the health benefits of canned tomatoes. Packed with flavors and nutrients, this recipe is a perfect addition to your collection of wholesome meals.

This recipe for Zucchini Rollups is packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants thanks to the fresh zucchini and canned tomatoes. While there are many health benefits associated with both of these ingredients, research shows that the lycopene content in tomatoes has been linked to various health benefits, including heart health and a reduced risk of prostate cancer

So, what are you waiting for? Give these Zucchini Rollups a try this week for a light and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any season! Learn how to make this recipe here

 

Try the NEW Tomato Wellness cookbook!

Discover our array of diverse recipes, each designed to bring the warmth of traditional family dining to your table. These meals are not only simple to prepare but also budget-friendly, making them perfect for busy households. Tailored to please every palate, our recipes cater to both individual tastes and family-wide preferences. Developed by our multicultural culinary team, these dishes offer a celebration of global flavors, ensuring nutritious, easy-to-make, and affordable meals for you and your family.

Get this recipe, and other budget-friendly meals, in our cookbook!

Zucchini Rollups

Zucchini Rollups

These Zucchini Rollups are a delightful and nutritious option that combines the goodness of fresh zucchini with the health benefits of canned tomatoes.

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 3 Large Zucchini, Ends Trimmed
  • 2 Tsp. Olive Oil
  • 8 Tbsp. Shredded Part Skim Mozzarella Cheese, Divided
  • 1 Large Egg, Lightly Beaten
  • 1⅓ Cups Low-Fat Cottage Cheese
  • 1 10 Oz Package Frozen Spinach, Thawed And Squeezed Dry
  • 1 Tbsp. Garlic Powder
  • ¼ Tsp. Ground Black Pepper
  • ⅛ Tsp. Kosher Salt
  • ¾ Cup Low-Sodium Marinara Sauce, Divided Or The Marinara Sauce On Page000
  • 2 Tbsp. Italian Seasoning

Instructions

    1. Preheat the oven to 425°F and position racks in upper and lower thirds of the oven.
    2. Slice zucchini lengthwise as thin as possible to get 20 total strips, about ⅛ inch thick each. Toss the zucchini in olive oil and arrange in a single layer on 2 rimmed baking sheets. Bake the zucchini, turning once, until tender, about 10 minutes total.
    3. Meanwhile, combine 6 Tbsp. mozzarella, egg, cottage cheese, spinach, garlic powder, black pepper and kosher salt in a medium bowl.
    4. Spread ¼ cup marinara in an 8-inch square baking dish. Place 1 Tbsp. of the cottage cheese mix near the bottom of the strip of zucchini. Roll it up and place, standing up, in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining zucchini and filling. Top the rolls with the remaining ½ cup marinara sauce and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle Italian seasoning on top.
    5. Bake the zucchini until the cheese is bubbly, about 20 minutes. Sprinkle with more Italian seasoning, if desired, right before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

    • Serve this beautiful dish with a simple green salad and some crusty whole grain bread for sopping up every last bit of sauce.
    • Recipe approved by Ellie Krieger, Culinary Nutritionist (RD) for Tomato Wellness.com

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size:

5 rollups

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 220Total Fat: 9gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 570mgCarbohydrates: 17gFiber: 4gSugar: 9gProtein: 21g
Celebrating National Canned Food Month: The Versatile Marvel of Tomato Products

Celebrating National Canned Food Month: The Versatile Marvel of Tomato Products

Welcome to National Canned Food Month! This February, we’re celebrating the unsung heroes of our pantry shelves: canned foods. From beans to fruits, canned goods offer convenience, nutrition, and affordability. And among these canned treasures, tomato products stand out as shining stars.

Easy, Healthy, and Affordable

Canned foods epitomize convenience. With just a twist of a can opener, you have instant access to nutritious ingredients for your meals. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent on the go, or a student with limited cooking skills, canned foods provide a hassle-free solution to meal preparation.

But convenience doesn’t mean sacrificing nutrition. Canned foods retain their essential vitamins and minerals, offering a healthy alternative to fresh produce. And let’s not forget about affordability. Canned goods are budget-friendly options that allow you to stretch your grocery dollars without compromising on quality.

The Tomato Triumph

While all canned foods have their merits, tomato products reign supreme in the realm of canned goods. From diced tomatoes to pasta sauce, these versatile gems add depth and flavor to a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re whipping up a hearty stew, simmering a savory sauce, or crafting a zesty salsa, tomato products are your culinary companions.

But what sets tomato products apart? It’s their ability to transcend seasonality. While fresh tomatoes may be a summer delicacy, canned tomato products ensure that you can enjoy their rich flavor and vibrant color year-round. Say goodbye to bland, out-of-season tomatoes and hello to the robust taste of canned tomato goodness.

A Necessity Beyond Seasons

Indeed, the necessity of canned foods extends beyond mere convenience. In a world where seasonal fluctuations impact food availability and prices, canned foods provide a reliable source of sustenance. They allow us to enjoy the flavors of summer during the depths of winter and to savor the taste of autumn long after the leaves have fallen.

So, as we celebrate National Canned Food Month, let’s raise a can of tomato products to toast their enduring appeal. Let’s honor the simplicity, healthfulness, and affordability of canned foods, with a special nod to the tomato’s remarkable versatility. And let’s be grateful for the role that canned foods play in nourishing our bodies and enriching our lives, regardless of the season.

In conclusion, National Canned Food Month is a time to celebrate the culinary marvels that line our pantry shelves. And among these treasures, tomato products shine brightly, offering a burst of flavor and a touch of sunshine in every can. So, here’s to a month filled with delicious meals, nutritious ingredients, and the enduring magic of canned foods. Happy National Canned Food Month!