Are the San Marzano Tomatoes worldwide different from those in Italy?
Are the San Marzano Tomatoes worldwide different from those in Italy?
San Marzano tomatoes are a type of tomato that is grown in the region of Campania, Italy, specifically in the area around the volcano Mount Vesuvius, and are considered by many to be among the best tomatoes for making pasta sauce.
The San Marzano tomatoes grown in Italy are considered to be sweeter, less acidic, and less seedy than other varieties of tomatoes. They are also known for their elongated shape and bright red color. They are protected under the European Union's Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) and Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, which means that only tomatoes grown in the specific region of San Marzano can be labeled as such.
San Marzano tomatoes grown outside of Italy are not protected by the PDO/PGI status, and the quality and taste may vary. Some growers outside of Italy may use the name San Marzano to describe tomatoes that resemble the Italian variety, but they are not the same. The quality of these tomatoes may vary, depending on the growing conditions, soil, and weather.
It's worth noting that some brands of canned tomatoes labeled as "San Marzano" may not have been grown in the specific region of San Marzano, Italy. It's always a good idea to check the label and ensure that the product is certified DOP (Denominazione d'Origine Protetta) if you're looking for the true San Marzano tomatoes.
