Is Canned dices tomatoes Kosher?
Yes, canned diced tomatoes are generally considered Kosher. The standard ingredients found in these cans—cut tomatoes, tomato juice, salt, calcium chloride, and citric acid—are inherently plant-based and do not contain animal derivatives. This makes them a safe staple for those adhering to Kosher dietary laws, provided the specific brand carries a certification symbol.
The Ingredient Breakdown
When determining if a product meets Kosher standards, we look for hidden animal derivatives, insect contaminants, or non-Kosher processing aids. In the case of standard canned diced tomatoes, the ingredient list is remarkably clean. Let's look at the specific components:
Cut Tomatoes and Tomato Juice: These are the base of the product. As fruits, tomatoes are naturally Kosher (Pareve). However, a subtle point of concern in agriculture is insect infestation. In high-quality canned products, the tomatoes are washed and processed in a way that minimizes this risk, which is why many major brands carry a Kosher certification to guarantee the inspection process.
Salt: Salt is a mineral and is universally Kosher. Interestingly, salt is also the primary preservative here, inhibiting bacterial growth without the need for synthetic chemicals.
Calcium Chloride: This is a firming agent derived from mineral salts. It ensures the tomato cubes remain firm and do not turn into mush during cooking. It is a synthetic salt, completely free of animal products, and poses no Kosher issues.
Citric Acid: This is used to adjust acidity and preserve freshness. While citric acid can theoretically be derived from mold (which is a subject of debate in some strict circles), the vast majority of citric acid used in the food industry today is derived from the fermentation of corn sugar (Pareve). Unless a specific brand uses a dairy-based fermentation process (which is rare), this ingredient is safe.
Nutritional Value
From a nutritional standpoint, canned diced tomatoes are a powerhouse of low-calorie density. A standard serving typically contains fewer than 30 calories, making them an excellent volume food for satiety without caloric penalty.
The sugar content is naturally occurring fructose and is very low—usually less than 3 grams per serving. Unlike many processed sauces, there is zero added sugar in the basic canned variety. Fat content is negligible, sitting at 0g. The primary nutritional benefit comes from the lycopene content, a potent antioxidant that becomes more bioavailable when tomatoes are cooked and canned. This fits perfectly into heart-healthy and weight-loss diet limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Canned dices tomatoes contain dairy or gluten?
Is Canned dices tomatoes good for weight loss?
Where can I buy Canned dices tomatoes?
Is Canned dices tomatoes safe for kids?

Pro Tip
Always double-check the label. Manufacturers change ingredients frequently without notice!




