Tomato Concentrate

Tomato concentrate is a thick paste made by cooking fresh tomatoes and removing most of the water. This process concentrates the natural flavors, sugars, and nutrients found in tomatoes. It is essentially a more condensed form of tomatoes.

Manufacturers add tomato concentrate to products primarily for its rich tomato flavor, red color, and thickening properties. It is a key ingredient in sauces, soups, ketchups, and many prepared meals, contributing to both taste and texture.

Tomato concentrate is considered a food ingredient and is generally recognized as safe when consumed as part of a typical diet. It is a source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants like lycopene. Neither JECFA nor EFSA has evaluated tomato concentrate as a food additive, as it is a whole food product. There are no notable controversies regarding its safety at typical intake levels.