Key findings
- 1Tomato paste is one of the cleanest processed foods, just concentrated tomatoes
- 2No preservatives are needed due to the low moisture and high acidity
- 3Italian and imported tomato paste often lists a single ingredient: tomatoes
Why is Tomato Paste Level 1 on average?
Tomato paste production involves cooking tomatoes for several hours to remove moisture, reducing them to roughly one-sixth of their original volume. The result is a thick, concentrated paste with intense tomato flavor. The cooking and concentration process is purely thermal, and no chemical additives, preservatives, or stabilizers are required. The low moisture content and high acidity naturally prevent spoilage. In our analysis, tomato paste products average a Processing Score of 2.1, which is Level 1.
How 458 tomato paste products break down
Share of products at each processing level, in our analysis.
Tomato Paste brand comparison
From least to most processed in our database.
How to read a tomato paste label
- 1
The best tomato paste lists only one ingredient: tomatoes
- 2
Some brands add salt, which is the only other ingredient tomato paste needs
- 3
Double-concentrated or triple-concentrated paste is cooked longer but not more processed
- 4
Tube packaging preserves freshness better than cans for partial use
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Frequently asked questions
Is tomato paste ultra-processed?
No. Tomato paste is made by cooking tomatoes down to a concentrate, and most brands contain only tomatoes or tomatoes and salt. In our analysis, tomato paste products average a Processing Score of 2.1, which is Level 1.
Is tomato paste better than canned tomatoes?
Both are simply processed and excellent pantry staples. Tomato paste is more concentrated because of the extended cooking, while canned tomatoes are packed close to fresh. Both are whole-food based with no industrial additives.
Why is tomato paste so shelf-stable?
The concentration process removes most water content, and the high natural acidity of tomatoes inhibits bacterial growth. These properties provide natural preservation without requiring chemical preservatives.