Tomato puree, here’s how to recognize those full of pesticides: just check these details

As dinners and great end-of-year culinary preparations approach, tomato puree emerges as one of the most requested ingredients on Italian tables. Essential for the basis of countless recipes, from sauces to braised meats, from ragù to the most elaborate dishes, its quality and safety become fundamental requirements. To respond to these consumer needs, Altroconsumo recently conducted an in-depth test on the most popular pastes in large-scale retail trade.

The analysis was not limited to evaluating traditional aspects such as taste and consistency, but paid particular attention to the presence of pesticide residuesan increasingly crucial parameter for health-conscious consumers. The results of this investigation revealed a rich and varied market panorama, but not free from critical issues. While some products feature multiple traces of pesticidesalthough falling within the legal limits, others were revealed completely clean. The real revelation? The pass that obtained the best score in the test was not the one with the highest price, a detail that dismantles many preconceptions about premium labels and invites a more informed choice, going beyond the simple brand.

Altroconsumo’s analysis: the weight of pesticides

Altroconsumo’s evaluations covered several crucial aspects to define the overall quality of the passes. The quality of the raw materialthe ideal consistency of the puree, its level of acidity, the aromatic freshness and the possible presence of added salt. However, the most sensitive and meticulously examined chapter was undoubtedly the one relating to pesticides. The association has conducted in-depth screening on dozens of substances, including those used in agricultural phases and which often prove difficult to trace in processed products.

The good news is that most of the pastures analyzed fully comply with the legal thresholds established for pesticide residues. Despite this, some labels have highlighted the presence of combinations of residues which, while not violating current regulations, raise legitimate questions about the quality of the agricultural process and the production chain. The objective, for Altroconsumo, is to identify the ideal puree: the one that manages to combine a complete absence of contaminants with an excellent taste, deriving from a tomato harvested at the right level of ripeness and processed quickly to preserve its aroma and color intact.

The surprise on the shelves and how to choose the right puree

From the meticulous comparison conducted by the institution, an unexpected data of great interest for consumers was released: a pass of medium price range it has managed to outperform many of its more expensive competitors. This result was achieved thanks to an exemplary balance between its sensorial qualities and the total absence of detectable traces of pesticides. This is the truth surprise of the testfurther confirmation that the high price and the actual goodness of a product do not always go hand in hand, especially when talking about basic ingredients for the daily pantry.

To make a careful and informed choice, Altroconsumo recommends paying attention to several key factors. It is essential to check theorigin of the tomatoan important indicator of the supply chain. Likewise, it is advisable to check for the possible presence of added ingredients and evaluate the consistency of the product, avoiding passes that are too liquid or excessively acidic. Reading the label carefully proves to be the most effective weapon available to the consumer, especially for those who are preparing long and structured dishes during the upcoming holidays. On these occasions, the quality of the tomato puree as a base really makes the difference, guaranteeing safety, authentic flavor and a pantry prepared without surprises.