How To Turn Tomatoes Into Tomato Paste In A Factory

Tomato paste is an essential ingredient used in various dishes, ranging from pizza sauce to pasta sauces. The process of turning tomatoes into tomato paste is simple, but it can become challenging when it comes to the production of large quantities. In this blog, we will discuss how to turn tomatoes into tomato paste in a factory setting.

Step 1: Selection of Tomatoes

The first step in the process of making tomato paste is to select the right tomatoes. Tomatoes used for making paste need to be ripe, firm, and have a low water content. In addition, the tomatoes should have a rich red color and be free from blemishes and bruises.

Step 2: Washing

After selecting the right tomatoes, the next step is to wash them thoroughly to remove dirt, debris, and any impurities. Commercial tomato paste factories use various washing processes, including soaking in water, air blowers, and sorting machines. The washing process reduces the chances of dirt and other foreign materials getting into the paste.

Step 3: Peeling

The next step is to remove the skin from the tomatoes. There are different methods of peeling tomatoes, including blanching and using a peeling machine. Blanching involves boiling the tomatoes for a few seconds, then plunging them in ice-cold water. This loosens the skin, making it easy to peel. A peeling machine, on the other hand, mechanically removes the skin.

Step 4: Grinding

Once the tomatoes are peeled, the next step in the process is to grind them into a paste. There are different types of equipment used in grinding tomatoes into paste, including colloid mills, homogenizers, and pulpers. The grinding process breaks down the tomatoes, making it easy to extract the liquid and turn it into a paste.

Step 5: Concentration

After grinding, the tomato paste is heated to concentrate and reduce the water content. This is done using a tomato paste concentrator, which uses heat and a vacuum to reduce the water content. The tomato paste can be concentrated up to 28% solids.

Step 6: Packaging

After concentration, the next and final step is packaging. The tomato paste is packaged in airtight cans or tubes to keep it fresh and free of contaminants. Canned tomato paste is commonly used in the food industry since it is easy to distribute, while tubes are convenient for home use since they allow for easy portioning.

Conclusion

In conclusion, turning tomatoes into tomato paste in a factory is a straightforward process once the right equipment is in place. The process involves selecting ripe tomatoes with low water content, washing, peeling, grinding, concentrating, and packaging. With economies of scale, a tomato paste factory can supply large quantities of tomato paste to meet the demands of the food industry. As an essential ingredient in various dishes, the value of tomato paste cannot be overemphasized.