THE SAN MARZANO TOMATO

A San Marzano tomato is similar in appearance to a Roma tomato, but thinner and more pointed. The walls of the tomato are much thicker with fewer seeds, which makes San Marzano tomatoes less acidic and sweeter than other tomatoes. These tomatoes are best suited for warmer climates, making the Sarnese Nocerino area of Italy the ideal location to grow them; the rich volcanic soil from Mount Vesuvius supplies the tomato plant with all the nutrients it needs. This area also has a very high water table which ensures the plants get the necessary water supply throughout their growth.

Cento Certified San Marzano Tomatoes are still grown in the traditional method: once the seedlings have matured, the plants are moved to the fields where they are hand-tied to wooden poles. When the tomatoes are vine-ripened, they are picked by hand and ultimately steam peeled and canned for your enjoyment all year long.