These prized Italian tomatoes are known for their elongated shape, pointed tip and vibrant red hue. San Marzanos have a delicate, thick flesh that contains fewer seeds and less water, making them less acidic and sweeter than other tomatoes. This makes them ideal for simple tomato sauces, where their balanced flavor can really shine. Grown on family farms and in fertile volcanic soil created by nearby Mount Vesuvius, San Marzano tomatoes are handpicked, peeled and canned within hours to capture their summer freshness. Our partnership with these local farmers and our producers in the Sarnese-Nocerino area ensures the quality and integrity of the San Marzano, a legendary tomato that carries with it the rich history of Italian cuisine. In order to gain the seal of authenticity displayed on this package, our product must be grown, packed and labeled in strict accordance with both the San Marzano consortium and European Union Denomination of Origin Protection regulation (D.O.P.).
- Carry all the official seals to be an authentic D.O.P San Marzano Tomato
- Grown exclusively in the Agro-Sarnese Nocerino area of Italy
- Packed in a light tomato puree
- Slender oblong shape with a vibrant red hue
- Low seed content compared to other whole peeled tomato varieties
- Kosher, Non-GMO, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Kitchen Tips:
Since they only come whole, you would need to crush or dice by hand before using in a recipe.
Usage Tips:
D.O.P. San Marzano tomatoes should be used when they can be the prominent ingredient to appreciate their flavor: a simple tomato pasta sauce and a Margherita pizza.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What does San Marzano D.O.P. seal/certificate mean, and why is it significant?
D.O.P. stands for the Italian phrase Denominazione d' Origine Protetta, or Protected Designation of Origin. D.O.P. intent is to preserve the geographical origin of products. This helps to protect the reputation of regional foods and to eliminate unfair competition and that mislead consumers with non-genuine products of inferior quality.
The D.O.P. label guarantees that these tomatoes are produced, processed and packaged in a specific geographical zone according to the standards and regulations set by the Italian government based on tradition. To earn this certification, producers must adhere to a strict set of guidelines overseen by the government.
Each step of the tomato’s lifecycle—from the seeds to the final label—is regulated.
How do I know if I am buying an authentic D.O.P tomato?
Don’t be fooled by D.O.P San Marzano imposters claiming other 3rd party certifications. You need to inspect the label and should be able to identify these elements if you are buying a true D.O.P San Marzano Tomato:
- The name on the front label of the can should read the words: Pomodoro San Marzano Dell’Agro Sarnese-Nocerino D.O.P.
- European Union Denomination of Origin Protection regulation seal
- San Marzano Consorzio seal
- Harvest date
- The packer name
- Lot number
D.O.P. San Marzano tomatoes must be sold whole, never crushed, diced or pulped.
Where are D.O.P. San Marzano tomatoes grown?
Must be grown of San Marzano seeds in the region near Mt. Vesuvius, specifically the provinces of Naples, Salerno and Avellino, i.e. the Agro Nocerino-Sarnese area.
