The Tomato Purée Revolution: How Innovation and Consumer Preferences are Shaping the Industry

Highlights

• Introduction
• Role of packaging in maintaining product quality
• The trend of organic items
• Growth of the Asia-Pacific Landscape
• Recent developments changing the outlook of the industry

Tomato purée is renowned for its integral role in Italian cuisine, its versatility across a variety of dishes, and its ability to enhance sauces and other recipes with depth, sweetness, and acidity. The food service industry, which includes restaurants, hotels, and catering services, accounts for a substantial share of the demand for tomato purees, as these ingredients are essential for preparing a wide range of soups, dishes, and sauces. 

The globalization of food culture and the expanded availability of international ingredients in supermarkets have empowered consumers to explore diverse cuisines at home. The rising interest in global flavors, especially Italian and Mediterranean dishes, has fueled the growing demand for tomato pastes and purees. These products play a key role in many traditional recipes from these regions, offering richness, unique flavors, and depth. The demand for tomato pastes and purees is projected to increase as consumers become more adventurous in their cooking and seek to replicate authentic tastes.

The growing appeal of flexible and resealable packaging in tomato purees

Recent innovations in packaging, such as resealable and eco-friendly options, are enhancing the attractiveness of tomato purées for consumers. These advancements enhance convenience while aligning with sustainability objectives, making them more attractive to environmentally conscious consumers. There is an increasing preference for single-serving pouches and sachets, which cater to busy, on-the-go lifestyles and offer portion control. These convenient formats enable consumers to use the product effortlessly, without the need for additional tools, helping to reduce food waste while enhancing ease of use.

Moreover, resealable packaging, including tubes and pouches, is gaining popularity as it extends the shelf life of tomato purees and facilitates easier storage. This feature particularly appeals to consumers who want to preserve product freshness after opening. Although traditional packaging such as tins and glass jars remains prevalent, innovative formats are rising. Flexible pouches and tubes, for example, are gaining popularity due to their lightweight design and lower environmental impact compared to glass or metal.

Incorporating organic, non-GMO, and flavorful options

Organic products are made without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs), attracting health-conscious consumers who prefer natural and eco-friendly choices. Manufacturers are broadening their offerings to include organic and non-GMO options to meet this rising demand. With these strategies they sustain the competitive market, attract new customers, and capitalize on the growing trend toward healthier and more sustainable food options.

This shift in consumer preference toward organic and non-GMO products presents a valuable opportunity for manufacturers of tomato pastes and purees. Moreover, there is a growing demand for tomato puree infused with herbs, spices, or roasted garlic, offering unique flavor profiles and enhanced convenience for home cooks.

Expanding landscape of the Asia-Pacific tomato puree industry

The rapid urbanization and rising disposable incomes in countries such as India and China are driving the expansion of the landscape of tomato puree. With evolving lifestyles, consumers are increasingly drawn to processed food products that provide convenience and quality.

The growth of the hospitality and food service sectors, fueled by tourism and urban development, is increasing the demand for tomato purees. New hotels and restaurants need substantial quantities of tomato products to enhance their menus. Consumers are increasingly favoring ready-to-use cooking ingredients like tomato puree, which make meal preparation easier. This trend is prominent in the food service industry, where tomato products are essential for preparing a wide range of sauces and dishes. Among the countries in Asia-Pacific, Australia is projected to cite an impressive CAGR of 7.8% in the tomato puree industry by 2032. 

Cremica expanded its product portfolio with a range of sauces in June 2022

Cremica Food Industries introduced a new line of delicious sauces perfect for salad dressings, dips, or as a filling for sandwiches and wraps. These versatile condiments are made from ripe red tomatoes and enhance hot and cold dishes. They are suitable for use in homes, restaurants, cafes, and fast-food chains and Ideal for pairing with sandwiches, burgers, fries, and grilled or fried meats. 

Additionally, these sauces serve as an excellent base for a variety of curries and soups. Cremica’s sauces elevate the flavor and texture of meals and offer a rich source of essential antioxidants, vitamins, and lycopene, contributing to various health benefits.

Kraft Heinz expanded its partnership with Highbury Canco

In May 2024, Kraft Heinz Canada extended its partnership with Highbury Canco till the end of 2027. This agreement ensures that the ingredients for Heinz ketchup, including tomato paste, will continue to be processed in Leamington and used at Heinz’s ketchup facility in Montreal. More than 600 people work at Highbury Canco's large Leamington plant, which also manufactures Heinz tomato juice, Classico pasta sauce, and Heinz beans.

To sum up, the tomato purée industry is expanding due to its integral role in diverse cuisines and innovations in convenient, eco-friendly packaging. Moreover, the rising demand for organic and non-GMO products, combined with consumer preferences for versatile and flavorful options, highlights significant growth opportunities in this landscape.

For more details on advanced manufacturing of tomato puree, feel free to contact us!

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