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.

  • Jerkface (any/all)English
    81·
    2 days ago

    China grows about a third of the world’s tomatoes.

    I don’t know why you would cast doubt on this when we know China grows way more tomatoes than they can use, uses slaves, and those tomatoes are going SOMEWHERE. But that’s not convincing because you are not certain about some of the horticultural details?? Like, it really sounds like you are looking for a reason not to believe the truth being thrust in your face.