Some products described as “Italian” appear to contain Chinese tomatoes, BBC investigation suggests.
Summary
An investigation revealed that “Italian” tomato purees sold in UK and German supermarkets likely contain tomatoes grown in China’s Xinjiang province, linked to forced labor involving Uyghur and other minorities.
Testing found 17 products, many from Italian supplier Petti, containing Chinese tomatoes despite labels suggesting Italian origins.
Supermarkets disputed the findings, though some, like Lidl, admitted past use of Chinese tomatoes.
The EU is strengthening laws to address forced labor in supply chains, while critics warn the UK’s weaker regulations risk making it a “dumping ground” for such products.
Thank you for addressing one percent of global tomato concerns. The rest of the 99% are so grateful you’ve overlooked the shitty practices of the industry.