Product Overview
Roma tomato, also known as plum tomato, is a widely cultivated processing and fresh-market tomato variety valued for its firm flesh, low moisture content, and rich flavor. It is an important commodity in retail, food service, and food processing sectors, particularly for sauces, pastes, and cooking applications.
Key Characteristics
Roma tomatoes are medium-sized with an oval or elongated shape and smooth red skin. They contain fewer seeds and less juice than round slicing tomatoes, resulting in a dense, meaty texture. Flavor is mildly sweet with balanced acidity. Roma tomatoes are climacteric fruits and continue to ripen after harvest.
Nutritional Value
Roma tomatoes are low in calories and rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and antioxidants such as lycopene. They also provide dietary fiber and beneficial plant compounds that contribute to overall health.
Seasonality and Origin
Roma tomatoes are grown in warm climates and greenhouse environments and are available year-round. Major production regions include the United States, Mexico, Italy, Spain, and other tomato-growing regions worldwide.
Common Applications
• Sauces and pasta sauces
• Tomato paste and puree
• Canning and processing
• Roasting and grilling
• Soups and stews
• Fresh culinary preparations
Storage and Handling
Proper handling is essential to maintain flavor and quality.
• Recommended storage temperature: 55°F to 70°F
• Relative humidity: 85–90%
• Shelf life: 1–2 weeks under optimal conditions
• Store at room temperature for best flavor
• Refrigerate only when fully ripe if extended storage is needed
• Handle carefully to prevent bruising
• Avoid direct sunlight and excessive heat
Origin and Background
Roma tomatoes were developed for their superior processing qualities, including thick flesh, low water content, and concentrated flavor. They have become one of the most important tomato varieties for both commercial processing and home cooking.
Grades and Quality Standards
Extra Fancy Grade
• Uniform size, shape, and red coloration
• Firm texture with smooth skin
• Free from cracks, bruising, and defects
Fancy Grade
• Slight variations in size and appearance
• Minor cosmetic imperfections allowed
• Suitable for retail distribution
Commercial / Processing Grade
• Visible defects permitted
• Maintains internal quality
• Used for sauces, pastes, and food processing applications.