Is Petite Diced Tomatoes Kosher?

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a processed food is kosher, the first step is looking at the ingredient list. For Petite Diced Tomatoes, the list is remarkably short and clean. The primary ingredient is, unsurprisingly, Tomatoes. Since tomatoes are a vegetable, they are inherently kosher (pareve).

The remaining ingredients serve as preservatives and flavor enhancers. Tomato Juice acts as the packing medium. Salt is a mineral and is always kosher. The two technical additives are Calcium Chloride and Citric Acid. Calcium chloride is a firming agent used to keep the tomato pieces from turning into mush. It is a salt derivative, mineral-based, and completely kosher. Citric acid is a naturally occurring acid found in citrus fruits, though commercially it is often produced via fermentation of sugars by molds. Regardless of the source, it is a plant-derived chemical and is acceptable under kosher laws.

Because there are no hidden flavorings, colorings, or thickeners derived from animals (like gelatin or dairy), and no grain-based ingredients (like wheat-based anti-caking agents), this product is considered Pareve. This means it contains no meat or dairy, making it suitable to eat with any meal.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Petite Diced Tomatoes are an excellent addition to a healthy diet. Tomatoes are low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium. The canning process actually increases the bioavailability of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes.

Regarding the additives: Salt is the only ingredient to watch for if you are monitoring sodium intake. However, the amount is generally low enough that it fits within standard dietary limits. Calcium Chloride and Citric Acid have negligible caloric value and do not affect the macronutrient profile. This product is fat-free and very low in sugar, making it an ideal ingredient for weight management plans.