Tomato Fiber

Tomato fiber is a dietary fiber source derived from tomatoes. It is typically produced by processing tomato pulp and skins, which are byproducts of tomato processing for juice or paste. The fiber is then dried and milled into a powder.

Manufacturers add tomato fiber to foods as a source of dietary fiber and to improve texture. It can act as a thickener and stabilizer in sauces, soups, and processed meats. It is often found in ketchup, barbecue sauce, and other tomato-based condiments.

Tomato fiber is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. It is a source of dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health. Regulatory bodies like the WHO/FAO Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) have evaluated various food additives, but specific evaluations for tomato fiber are not widely publicized. Evidence suggests that increased dietary fiber intake is associated with positive health outcomes, but specific health claims for tomato fiber itself are limited.