A BBC investigation has raised questions regarding the origins of some tomato puree products marketed as "Italian" by several UK supermarkets, suggesting they may contain tomatoes grown in China.
The findings are based on a study commissioned by the BBC, which suggests that some products, labelled as containing Italian tomatoes, could include tomatoes from the Xinjiang region of China. However, the supermarkets involved have strongly disputed these claims and defended their sourcing practices.
The products in question include Tesco's "Italian Tomato Purée," Asda's double concentrate labelled as "puréed Italian grown tomatoes," and Waitrose's "Essential Tomato Purée," described as "Italian tomato puree." The BBC reported that 17 products, mainly own-brand items sold in UK and German retailers, might contain tomatoes grown in China. However, all supermarkets involved have conducted their own investigations and found no evidence supporting the presence of Chinese tomatoes in their products.
Xinjiang, located in north-western China, is known for its optimal climate for tomato cultivation and produces a significant portion of the world’s tomatoes. Allegations from human rights groups have linked tomato production in this region to forced labour involving Uyghur and other minority groups. China has denied these allegations, calling them "disinformation and lies," and asserting that workers' rights are protected by law.
The supermarkets whose products were tested by the BBC have been proactive in responding to these claims. Tesco, Waitrose, Asda, and other retailers highlighted their commitment to rigorous supply chain oversight and transparency. Each retailer stated that their internal investigations have found no evidence to support the claims of Chinese-origin tomatoes in their products. Many have also pointed out that the testing methodology used by the BBC and its partner, Source Certain, was not consistent with their own verification processes.
Supermarkets named in the investigation responded promptly. Tesco suspended supply of the products while conducting a review, while Rewe withdrew the items from sale as a precautionary measure. Waitrose, Morrisons, Edeka, and Rewe also conducted their own independent tests, which they claim did not indicate the presence of Chinese tomatoes.
Supermarkets are facing increased pressure to balance consumer expectations with the complexity of global supply chains. The companies involved reiterated that they source ingredients responsibly and from reputable suppliers. Many also stressed that they have implemented stringent quality control measures to maintain product integrity.
The report sheds light on the challenges of tracing the origin of ingredients in a complex global market, but the supermarkets involved have shown their dedication to transparency and consumer protection.
As the investigation continues, the retailers remain committed to working closely with suppliers to uphold the highest standards of product quality and to reassure customers of their commitment to integrity and trust.
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