Does Tomato Paste Product With Italian Herbs contain dairy or gluten?

Yes, it contains dairy in the form of Romano cheese made from cow's milk. It does not appear to contain gluten ingredients.

Is Tomato Paste Product With Italian Herbs good for weight loss?

Not really. While tomatoes are healthy, the added High Fructose Corn Syrup increases the calorie and sugar content, which is counterproductive for weight loss.

Where can I buy Tomato Paste Product With Italian Herbs?

This product is widely available at major grocery chains, big-box stores, and online retailers like Amazon.

Is Tomato Paste Product With Italian Herbs safe for kids?

Yes, it is generally safe for children, but be mindful of the added sugar content and the high sodium levels if serving frequently.

Is Tomato Paste Product With Italian Herbs Vegan?

No, Tomato Paste Product With Italian Herbs is not vegan. While the base ingredients appear plant-based, a closer look at the label reveals a hidden dairy derivative. This article explains exactly which ingredient makes this product unsuitable for a vegan diet and offers a healthier alternative.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When analyzing a product labeled 'Italian Herbs,' one typically expects a blend of spices, garlic, and onions suspended in a tomato base. The first few ingredients in this product—TOMATO PUREE, HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP, SALT, and DRIED ONION—are generally considered vegan-friendly. However, the devil is in the details, specifically regarding the flavor enhancers.

The critical non-vegan ingredient is ROMANO CHEESE MADE FROM COW'S MILK. Romano is a hard, salty Italian cheese traditionally made from sheep's milk, but in mass-market American products, it is almost exclusively made from cow's milk. The inclusion of CULTURED MILK, SALT, and ENZYMES confirms that this is a dairy product. Even though it is likely used in a small quantity to provide a savory 'umami' kick, its presence renders the entire product non-vegan.

Additionally, vegans should be aware of NATURAL FLAVORS. While this term is vague, in the context of a savory food product containing cheese, natural flavors can sometimes be derived from animal sources to round out the taste profile. Combined with SOYBEAN OIL (which is plant-based but adds processed fat) and CITRIC ACID, the product is a processed food that strictly fails the vegan test due to the cheese.

🚫 Culprit Ingredients:

milk

Nutritional Value

Nutritionally, this tomato paste product is a mixed bag. On the positive side, tomato paste is rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health and cancer prevention. However, the health benefits are significantly undermined by the inclusion of HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP. This added sugar increases the calorie count and can spike blood glucose levels, making it less ideal for those monitoring their sugar intake.

In terms of macronutrients, the product contains a moderate amount of calories, primarily derived from the added sugar and the small amount of soybean oil. It is also high in sodium due to the salt and the inherent saltiness of the Romano cheese. While it provides a quick burst of flavor for pasta sauces, it is not a 'health food' and should be consumed in moderation, particularly by those with dietary restrictions regarding sugar or sodium.