What Qualities Should Export-Grade Tomato Paste Have?
Tomato paste is a strategic product in the food industry, and its export requires compliance with international standards. In the global market, only products that meet importing countries’ quality benchmarks can compete effectively.
Here are the most important international standards for tomato paste exports.
1️⃣ Brix Standard (Soluble Solids Content)
One of the most crucial factors is Brix level, which measures the concentration of soluble solids (mainly natural sugars).
Global benchmarks:
• Brix 27–30 → For daily use
• Brix 36–38 → For industrial and professional use (high-concentration paste)
A stable and consistent Brix is required, especially in European and Asian markets.
2️⃣ Color Index Standard
The paste should have a deep, natural red color. Global standards evaluate this through Color Index values.
⚠️ Brownish or dull colors may indicate:
• Poor-quality tomatoes
• Overcooking
• Improper storage
→ And may lead to customs rejection.
3️⃣ Heavy Metals & Pesticide Residue
According to WHO and FAO standards, tomato paste must not contain high levels of heavy metals like:
• Lead (Pb)
• Cadmium (Cd)
• Arsenic (As)
Pesticide residues must also remain below the permitted limits. These are verified by a Certificate of Analysis (COA).
4️⃣ Export Packaging Standards
Globally accepted packaging options include:
• 220–230 kg aseptic drums (with sterile inner lining)
• Industrial tin cans with food-grade coating
• Export-grade pallets for safe transport
• Clearly printed production/expiry dates, traceability codes
❌ Non-standard packaging can cause product rejection at destination ports.
5️⃣ Food Safety & Hygiene Certifications
Export-ready tomato paste must be certified by internationally recognized authorities:
• ISO 22000 – Food safety management system
• HACCP – Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points
• HALAL – Required in Muslim-majority countries
• Health Certificate – Issued by national food authorities
6️⃣ Compliance with Destination Regulations
Every importing country has its own standards. For example:
• Iraq & Afghanistan focus on Halal compliance and price competitiveness
• Oman demands high health and laboratory testing standards
• EU countries prioritize COA, organic certificates, and packaging quality
A professional exporter must understand and adapt to these differences.
✅ AfraFood Tomato Paste Meets Global Standards
✔ High Brix & Natural Color
✔ Certified by HACCP, ISO, and Health Authority
✔ Export-grade Packaging
✔ Fully Compliant with Target Country Regulations
✔ Lab-Tested and Approved Quality
📞 Contact us today for product samples, technical data, or price inquiries.