When sourcing from a wholesale tomato supplier, it’s crucial to understand the industry terms that define quality, consistency, and functionality in tomato products. Whether you’re a food manufacturer, distributor, or foodservice buyer, being fluent in tomato terminology helps you make informed decisions and streamline communication with suppliers.
At One Source Food Solutions, we believe that transparency starts with education. Below are the essential tomato terms every buyer should know—plus, if you’re still hungry for answers, our FAQ page covers even more.
1. Brix: The Tomato Concentration Benchmark
Brix refers to the sugar content in a liquid solution, measured in degrees Brix (°Bx). In the tomato industry, it indicates the concentration of tomato solids:
- Tomato paste often ranges between 28–30° Brix
- Tomato puree typically measures 8–12° Brix
Why does this matter? Higher Brix means thicker consistency and richer tomato flavor. It also affects how much product you need for your end application, whether you’re producing sauces, soups, or ketchup.
Understanding Brix is a non-negotiable when selecting a wholesale tomato product that meets your performance and cost-efficiency goals.
2. Hot Break vs. Cold Break: Processing Methods Explained
The terms hot break and cold break describe how tomatoes are heated during the initial phase of processing, impacting their final texture and viscosity.
- Hot Break tomatoes are quickly heated to high temperatures (85–100°C / 185–212°F), producing a thicker consistency. This is ideal for paste, ketchup, and pizza sauces.
- Cold Break tomatoes are heated at lower temperatures (65–75°C / 149–167°F), resulting in a thinner, more pourable product—great for juices, thin sauces, and soups.
Choosing the right break type ensures the wholesale tomato product aligns with your formulation and manufacturing needs.
3. Aseptic Packaging: Long-Lasting Freshness Without Preservatives
Aseptic processing involves sterilizing the tomato product and packaging it in a sterile environment. The result? A shelf-stable product that retains flavor and color—without added preservatives.
Key benefits of aseptic wholesale tomato packaging:
- Extended shelf life
- Cost-effective storage and transport
- Consistent quality across batches
One Source Food Solutions offers aseptic packaging for tomato paste, sauces, and diced tomatoes—perfect for bulk food buyers with high standards.
4. Tomato Paste, Puree, or Sauce? Know the Differences
Not all tomato products are created equal. Here’s a simplified guide:
- Tomato Paste: A thick, concentrated product with high Brix. Used in processed foods where tomato intensity is key.
- Tomato Puree: Smoother and less concentrated than paste, ideal for stews, marinara, and batch cooking.
- Tomato Sauce: Often seasoned, thinner, and ready-to-use. Lower Brix and suited for quick-service recipes.
Understanding these variations is vital when ordering wholesale tomato ingredients to ensure consistency in flavor, thickness, and application.
5. Custom Specifications: Tomato Solutions That Fit Your Operation
No two operations are alike. A leading wholesale tomato supplier, like One Source Food Solutions, offers custom specifications to meet your exact needs—including:
- Brix level
- Acidity
- Pouch or drum packaging
- Delivery timelines
This level of flexibility ensures your supply chain runs smoothly and your product quality stays consistent.
Want More Tomato Insights?
Knowing the lingo of the tomato trade helps food buyers stay confident, cost-efficient, and aligned with operational goals. For more commonly asked questions about tomato products and sourcing, visit our FAQ page.
Ready to source high-quality wholesale tomato products with precision and reliability? Contact One Source Food Solutions—your trusted partner in industrial tomato ingredients.