My name is Natali Espindola and I too am a proud consumer of canned tomatoes. From
my hometown of Sacramento, California to my college campus at California Polytechnic State
University in San Luis Obispo, canned tomatoes are a kitchen staple in my life.
I am in my third year at Cal Poly studying Agricultural Business in hopes to pursue a
career in agriculture. My passion for this industry stems from my grandparents and the hard work
they put into growing and harvesting tomato fields in Northern California. Hand picking produce
that would go on to feed the many mouths of America. This dedication has allowed me to have a
great appreciation for the people and the process behind the food we eat.
Why Am I Interested in Tomatoes?
My interest in the tomato industry recently grew after meeting Alec Wasson, who shared
many stories about the hard work, care, and innovation that goes into producing canned
tomatoes. Shortly after, I was given the opportunity to visit the tomato fields in Winters, CA during their harvesting. There I was able to see first hand how quick the process
between picking and transportation to the cannery really was. It was incredible to see how much
innovation has changed the game for agriculture of the last few decades.
After visiting the fields, I took a trip to the canning facility, where I got to see each step
the tomatoes took before being sealed in their can. In less than 12 hours, the tomatoes were
picked, sorted, washed, peeled, cut, packaged, cooled, and ready to ship across California and the
United States. This entire process took science, care, and many hands to produce something that
is truly essential.Watching this process gave me a whole new perspective and appreciation for the quality
and integrity that is behind the scenes of canned tomatoes, a product I never really thought twice
about until after the tours. What many may not realize is these products are not only convenient
household or restaurant items but a reflection of how far modern agricultural efficiency and
sustainability has come.
The Value of Canned Tomatoes
Canned tomatoes are healthy, affordable, and readily available year-round, making them a
key part of the food system nationwide. Not only are they packed with vitamins but they also
help reduce food waste by using tomatoes that may not have been pretty enough to make it to the
fresh markets in your grocery stores.
Going forward, I will be sharing insights about the values of canned tomatoes, in addition
to delicious, easy recipes to share for the up and coming season. My goal is to help more people
appreciate where their food is coming from, understand the agricultural story that is behind each
produce, and celebrate the farmers and workers who make it all possible.
In a world where it’s getting harder to know where your food really comes from—and whether you can trust the label—there’s one item in your pantry that keeps things refreshingly simple: a can of American-grown tomatoes.
You’ve probably seen the headlines: confusion about tariffs, supply chain delays, imported food recalls, and deceptive labeling practices from overseas. But amidst the noise, canned tomatoes grown right here in the U.S. stand out as a symbol of quality, transparency, and just plain good taste.
Let’s start with what’s in the can. More than 96% of the tomatoes used for canning in the U.S. are grown in California’s Central Valley—an agricultural powerhouse with decades of tomato-growing expertise. These tomatoes are picked at peak ripeness, packed within hours, and preserved in a way that locks in their flavor and boosts their health benefits—especially lycopene, the antioxidant that becomes more bioavailable through heating. Here’s a deep dive into the lycopene story.
And it’s not just California carrying the load. Indiana is home to award-winning processors like Red Gold, and Jersey Tomatoes have their own cult following thanks to their natural sweetness and flavor. When you reach for American-grown tomatoes, you’re getting the best of what our farms have to offer, from coast to coast.
But don’t just take our word for it.
In a blind taste test by Serious Eats, American-grown tomatoes beat out many imported brands, including San Marzanos. Taste Cooking declared American tomatoes “the real MVPs” for sauces and soups. And America’s Test Kitchen confirmed that some of the best canned tomatoes available for home cooks are proudly grown and packed in the U.S.
Even the beloved San Marzano tomatoes don’t always live up to their reputation. According to The Washington Post, many cans labeled “San Marzano” aren’t D.O.P. certified and are often misleading or flat-out fake. The real thing is expensive and rare—and even then, not necessarily better.
Worse still, a BBC investigation revealed that Italian companies have been importing cheap Chinese tomatoes, processing them in Italy, and labeling them as “Made in Italy.” This so-called tomato laundering has shocked consumers worldwide, but the good news? None of those tomatoes are allowed in the U.S. The FDA bans all Chinese-grown tomato paste from entering our market.
So while other countries may be playing games with their supply chains and product labels, American-grown canned tomatoes offer something that’s increasingly rare in the food world: trust. You know where they came from. You know how they were grown—and by whom. And best of all? They taste amazing.
Still not convinced? Just look at what the pros are using. In San Francisco, multiple-time World Pizza Champion Tony Gemignani proudly uses California tomatoes at his restaurants: Tony’s Pizza Napoletana, Pizza Rock, and Slice House. He even has his own line of California-grown canned tomatoes.
At Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix, Apizza Scholls in Portland, and John’s of Bleecker Street in NYC, chefs who could source any ingredient in the world choose American-grown tomatoes for their flavor and consistency. Great chefs know: great tomatoes make great food.
And when you bring it home, you can cook like the pros. Whether it’s a bold marinara, a cozy tomato soup, or a fiery shakshuka, canned tomatoes are a home cook’s secret weapon. They’re affordable, shelf-stable, and pack way more flavor than most out-of-season fresh tomatoes.
Need some inspiration? Start with these easy, flavor-packed videos:
Shakshuka Pita Pizzas A delightful twist on the classic shakshuka, these personal pita pizzas are topped with fresh spinach, eggs, feta cheese, and a melty egg.
You can also explore even more recipes, articles, and videos at www.TomatoWellness.com—a one-stop-shop for everything you need to know about American-grown tomatoes. While you’re there, don’t miss our Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube pages, where we’re always posting new cooking demos, farm stories, and myth-busting facts about your favorite fruit.
In a world full of question marks, canned tomatoes are a rare certainty. Flavor? ✔️ Nutrition? ✔️ Trust? ✔️ Support for American farmers and a lower carbon footprint? ✔️✔️
So next time you’re at the store, flip the can over and check the label. Look for “Grown in the USA.” Support the chefs, processors, and family farms who are doing it right—and give yourself a little high-five for making one of the smartest food choices in your pantry.
In today’s globalized world, our grocery carts often reflect a blend of international flags. But there are compelling reasons to consider filling your basket with a little more red, white, and blue. Choosing “Made in the USA” food isn’t just about patriotism; it’s a decision that can benefit you, the economy, and even the world.
You Are What You Eat (and Where It Comes From)
Safety First
The United States has rigorous food safety standards. The FDA and USDA strictly regulate food production, processing, and packaging, giving you peace of mind about the quality and safety of what you’re putting on your plate.
Knowing Your Farmers
Choosing American-made allows you to support local farmers and ranchers. This fosters a connection to your food source and potentially means fresher, more flavorful produce raised with higher quality standards.
Building a Stronger America (One Bite at a Time)
The Job Engine
When you buy American-made, you’re directly supporting American jobs. From farmers and food processors to truck drivers and grocery store workers, your purchases contribute to a healthier domestic economy.
Investing in Innovation
A robust domestic food industry fuels American innovation. Competition and consumer demand drive research and development in sustainable farming practices, food safety technologies, and delicious new products.
A Ripple Effect for the World
Environmental Responsibility
Supporting local food systems reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation of food products. This translates to a smaller environmental impact and a more sustainable future.
Fair Trade at Home
Strong domestic food production allows the US to advocate for fair trade practices on a global scale. This can empower farmers in developing countries and promote more equitable food production systems worldwide.
Making Informed Choices
Look for the Label
While “Made in the USA” labeling isn’t always straightforward, look for clues. Some manufacturers proudly display the American flag, while others might mention the state where the product is grown or processed.
Ask Your Grocer
Many grocery stores offer local or regionally sourced products. Don’t hesitate to ask about the origin of your food choices and support stores committed to local producers.
Explore Farmers Markets
Immerse yourself in the bounty of your local region! Farmers markets offer the freshest, most seasonal produce directly from the farmers who grow it.
The Bottom Line
Choosing American-made food isn’t just about buying a product; it’s about making a conscious choice. It’s a vote for quality, safety, and a thriving domestic food industry. It’s a commitment to supporting local communities and promoting sustainable practices. So, the next time you’re at the grocery store, take a moment to consider the stars and stripes on your food. You might be surprised at the positive impact a small shift in your buying habits can have.
Tomato sauce, canned tomatoes, and salsa aren’t just flavorful additions to school meals—they’re also nutritional powerhouses that help fuel growing bodies and minds! Packed with vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, these nutrient-rich ingredients support everything from immune health to brain function while adding vibrant color and flavor to kids’ favorite dishes.
Tomatoes & USDA School Meal Standards
Did you know that tomato products help meet the USDA’s school meal guidelines? By contributing to the red/orange vegetable requirement, they make it easier than ever to serve balanced, nutritious meals that kids actually enjoy. And because they’re shelf-stable and budget-friendly, they’re a win for school foodservice teams too!
Easy (and Delicious!) Ways to Serve Tomato Products
Looking for creative ways to incorporate more tomato goodness into school meals? Try these kid-approved ideas:
✅ Marinara magic – Serve with whole-grain pasta, pizza, or even as a dipping sauce for breadsticks ✅ Taco time – Spoon fresh salsa onto tacos, burrito bowls, or nachos for a zesty twist ✅ Soup’s on! – Stir canned tomatoes into soups, stews, or chili for a nutrient boost ✅ Dip it! – Offer salsa as a dip for whole-grain crackers, veggie sticks, or baked tortilla chips
✨ Celebrate International School Meals Day on March 13th by adding a nutritious veggie boost to school lunches with tomato products!
A Simple, Nutritious Choice
Tomato products check all the boxes—they’re nutritious, affordable, versatile, and loved by kids! Whether served in classic spaghetti, zesty taco bowls, or a comforting tomato soup, they bring bold flavor and important nutrients to school menus.
For more insights and research on the power of tomato products, visit TomatoWellness.com!
You may have read the headlines that the FDA just updated their definition of the term “healthy” as it relates to foods and beverages on store shelves. The FDA issued this final rule based on the latest health science available, so that consumers may easily identify foods in supermarkets that promote nutritious diets and ultimately help reduce the risks of chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Improving nutrition is one of the best ways you can help prevent these diseases. In order for food products, like tomato products, to use the claim “healthy” on food labels they must follow specific criteria (see below) that were recently updated by the FDA. Since consumers rely on food labels to help guide them to making good choices, the use of “healthy” on food labels is a good thing! And given the new guidelines, when you see “healthy” on a food label you can rest assured that the food has met these new criteria for nutrition qualities in the food product that are healthful for you and your family. This new rule applies to a number of terms on labels, including “health, “healthful,” “healthfully,” “healthfulness,” “healthier,” “healthiest,” “healthily,” and “healthiness.” These types of claims on food labels are considered implied nutrient content claims, because they suggest that a food may provide health benefits to people who choose them. The good news is that many tomato products fit perfectly into the criteria for “healthy,” because they are food products packed with real tomatoes, rich in many nutrients that support wellness.
FDA Criteria for “Healthy” on Food Labels
It’s exciting that the new “healthy” guideline emphasizes nutrient-dense foods, such as vegetables. Many tomato products—based on whole tomatoes—automatically qualify as “healthy”.
According to the new FDA guidelines, foods must meet the following criteria to be “healthy.”
Vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fat-free and low-fat dairy, lean game meat, seafood, eggs, beans, peas, lentils, nuts, and seeds with no added ingredients except for water, automatically qualify for the “healthy” label. Many no added salt tomato products, such as canned diced, whole, or crushed tomatoes; tomato sauce, and tomato puree fit neatly into this category, as these foods are made with vegetables—delicious, wholesome tomatoes—with no other added ingredients other than water.
Foods that provide the food group equivalent for a food group, meaning that a serving of the food product must deliver a full serving of the intended food group. In the case of tomato products, each ½ cup serving of canned diced, whole, or crushed tomatoes, tomato or marinara sauce, 100% tomato juice, and salsa delivers a full ½ cup equivalent of vegetables. And ¼ cup of tomato paste—which is a concentrated source of tomatoes—provides a full ½ cup serving of tomatoes. One cup of concentrated tomato soup provides a ¼ cup serving of tomatoes.
Foods must meet the added sugar limit: 2% of the Daily Value (DV), which equals 1 gram of added sugar per serving. Many tomato products, such as canned diced, whole, or crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, 100% tomato juice, and salsa are made without the addition of added sugars. You can read the Nutrition Facts labels to ensure your favorite tomato products achieve this level of added sugars.
Foods must meet the sodium limit, which is 10% of the Daily Value (DV) or 230 mg per serving. Many tomato products, such as canned diced, whole, or crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato puree, are below this threshold for sodium. You can look for no added salt products, or scan the nutrition facts label for sodium in your favorite tomato products—even those tomato products with added sodium may be below these levels.
Foods must meet the saturated fat limit, which is 5% of the Daily Value (DV) or 1 gm per serving. Tomatoes and tomato products do not inherently contain appreciable levels of saturated fat. Most tomato products, including canned diced, whole, or crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato puree—contain no saturated fat-containing ingredients, unless otherwise noted on labels.
Bottomline on Healthy Tomato Products
Tomato products capture the essence of freshly harvested tomatoes. These delicious foods are a budget-friendly, accessible source of vegetables in your diet, and they can provide multiple nutrients, including vitamins A and C, potassium, iron, and fiber. In addition, they contain rich sources of the antioxidant compound lycopene, which is even more bioavailable in canned tomatoes compared to fresh. The nutrition profile of tomatoes—one of the most beloved vegetables in our diets—is linked with multiple health benefits, including reduced risks of cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer. No wonder tomato products are a key part of many wholesome traditional diet patterns, including the Mediterranean diet and Latin American diet.
Sharon Palmer, MSFS, RDN
Learn more about these new “healthy” food guidelines here.
When you choose tomato products labeled “Made in the USA,” you’re not just supporting American farmers—you’re prioritizing transparency, ethical labor practices, and sustainability in your food choices. Recent investigations have revealed the growing practice of deceptive labeling in the global tomato industry, making buying local more important than ever.
What’s Really in Your Imported Tomatoes?
A recent bombshell report from the BBC revealed that Italy, long associated with premium tomato products, has been importing and repackaging Chinese tomato paste—some sourced from regions linked to forced labor. These products are then marketed as “Made in Italy,” misleading consumers and putting unfair pressure on authentic Italian farmers. While these questionable products may not yet be entering U.S. markets, this discovery raises serious concerns about the integrity of the products labeled as premium imports.
Take “San Marzano” tomatoes, for example, often celebrated by online influencers for their magical quality. The official growing region for this sought-after variety in southern Italy spans just 740 acres, a tiny fraction of the land needed to meet the global demand. This huge disparity calls into question how many of the “San Marzanos” on supermarket shelves are truly authentic. Experts estimate that up to 95% of these tomatoes aren’t the genuine article, making them the “Fake Rolex” of canned tomatoes.
American Tomatoes: The Hidden Champions
Blind taste test after blind taste test, including another this year by The New York Times, have revealed perhaps an unexpected truth: American-grown tomatoes outperform even the prized San Marzanos. American tomatoes are fresher, more affordable, and often surpass their imported counterparts in flavor and quality. This is fantastic news for those who want top-notch taste while supporting local agriculture and saving money.
We understand if you’ve grown up with memories of your Nonna’s Sunday sauce made with a specific brand of imported tomatoes. Taste is personal, and nostalgia plays a big role in food choices. But it’s important to recognize that the notion that imported tomatoes are superior has been debunked time and again. We encourage people to try it out for themselves and discover their favorite, and not just believe things blindly because someone told you to on Instagram.
Beyond the flavor and quality, by choosing U.S.-grown tomatoes, you’re supporting family farmers who work hard to meet the highest standards of quality and sustainability—without the cloud of deceptive sourcing practices.
Why Buy Local?
Supporting U.S. farmers means knowing exactly where your food comes from. Domestic tomatoes are grown and processed under strict regulations, ensuring quality and authenticity. By buying local, you’re also reducing the carbon footprint associated with shipping products across oceans—sometimes 6,000 miles from Italy, or even farther if the ingredients come from China first.
American-grown tomatoes also support a more sustainable food system. Local farmers take pride in their work, ensuring a direct connection between their fields and your table. When you choose products grown close to home, you’re investing in community, sustainability, and fair practices.
Look for Transparency in Labeling
When shopping, check for “Made in the USA” labels or certifications that guarantee authenticity. With imported goods marks like “D.O.P.” (Protected Designation of Origin) are not foolproof. Choosing local products ensures your food hasn’t taken an unnecessary trip across the world, and it supports hardworking farmers and the whole food chain right here in your community.
Look for that Good Ol’ US of A sticker and assure yourself of quailty, transparency and that you’re making the best choice for your family and the planet.
My name is Natali Espindola and I too am a proud consumer of canned tomatoes. From
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