San Marzano tomatoes are the pride of Italian cuisine. Hailing from the Sarno River Valley in the Campania region. How to Identify the Genuine Article: These plum tomatoes are prized for their sweet taste, low acidity, and minimal seeds. They’ve gained a reputation for being the perfect tomatoes for making pasta sauces, earning them a special status as a Designation of Origin Protected (DOP) product in Italy.
The San Marzano Tomato Deception
Unfortunately, the popularity of San Marzano tomatoes has also led to widespread fraud. According to a 2017 report, nearly 95% of tomatoes labeled as San Marzano in the United States were fake. Many unscrupulous producers take advantage of the lack of regulation around the DOP label in the U.S., slapping counterfeit labels on tomatoes that aren’t the real deal. This practice not only cheats consumers but also undermines the hard work of Italian farmers who cultivate genuine San Marzano tomatoes. Pictured below is a deceiving can of what is probably regular grown Roma tomatoes. First of all, San Marzano tomatoes do not come diced or pureed. Only whole. Somewhere on the label, in the tiniest of print it’s going to say, “grown domestically in USA.”
What is even worse is that some these companies are charging a premium for these fake San Marzano’s adding insult to injury. Yes, you’re going to pay a hefty price for San Marzano tomatoes. $4.38 and up for 28 oz can depending on where you shop.
The Renowned Characteristics of San Marzano Tomatoes
San Marzano tomatoes are distinguished by their reduced seed count, denser flesh, and lower acidity compared to other tomato varieties. Their diminished moisture content contributes to a more concentrated and robust flavor. Moreover, these tomatoes must meet specific criteria regarding size, shape, and color at the time of harvest. Hand-picking is also a requirement, ensuring careful selection and preservation of their quality. These unique characteristics make San Marzano tomatoes highly sought after by both professional chefs and home cooks, especially for creating rich and flavorful tomato sauces.
The High Demand and Counterfeit Problem
The exceptional flavor, meaty texture, and cultural prestige associated with San Marzano tomatoes have led to a high demand for this Italian culinary treasure. Unfortunately, this demand has also given rise to a widespread counterfeit problem, with many unscrupulous producers taking advantage of the lack of regulation around the DOP label in the U.S. and mislabeling non-San Marzano tomatoes to capitalize on the higher prices that the genuine article commands.
San Marzano Tomatoes: How to Identify the Genuine Article
To ensure you’re purchasing authentic San Marzano tomatoes, consider the following key indicators:
- DOP Label: Genuine San Marzano tomatoes will bear the “DOP” or “PDO” (Protected Designation of Origin) label, which guarantees that the tomatoes are grown and processed in the designated region of Italy.
- Consortium’s Seal: Look for the Consortium’s rectangular seal featuring the San Marzano name and an image of a tomato plant, as it ensures the product has met strict production and quality standards.
- Reputable Producers: Choose tomatoes from well-known and reputable brands, such as La Valle, Cento Fine Foods, Gustarosso, La Fede, Mutti, Strianese, and AgriGenus. Always verify the producer’s recognition by the Consorzio San Marzano.
- Can Inspection: Authentic San Marzano tomatoes are typically packaged in cans, not jars or boxes. The can should provide information on the tomatoes’ origin, including the name of the producer and the region in which they were grown.
- Price Check: Authentic San Marzano tomatoes tend to be more expensive than regular canned tomatoes, so if you come across a suspiciously cheap can, it’s probably not the real thing.
By following these guidelines, you can confidently purchase genuine San Marzano tomatoes and enjoy the unparalleled taste and quality that they offer.
Sources for More Information
For additional information on authentic San Marzano tomatoes and how to ensure you’re purchasing the genuine article, consider visiting the following resources:
- Consorzio San Marzano (Official Consortium website): [http://www.consorziosanmarzano.it/]
- Italian Trade Agency’s Guide to DOP, IGP, and STG Labels: [https://www.italianmade.com/us/guide-to-dop-igp-and-stg-labels/]
- Eater’s Article on Fake San Marzano Tomatoes: [https://www.eater.com/2016/10/6/13186204/san-marzano-tomatoes-fraud]
Embrace the rich flavor of authentic San Marzano tomatoes in your culinary creations and appreciate the dedication of the Italian farmers who cultivate this remarkable product.