Tomato paste is a concentrated tomato product used to add rich flavor and color to sauces, stews, and soups. It packs a good amount of vitamin C and vitamin A into a small serving.
Why it's good in pregnancy
Vitamin C supports immune function and helps your body absorb iron, while vitamin A contributes to your baby's developing eyes, skin, and organs. Because tomato paste is concentrated, even small amounts add meaningful nutrition to meals.
Key nutrients
Vitamin CSupports immune health and helps your body absorb iron from plant-based foods.
Vitamin AContributes to your baby's eye, skin, and organ development.
Serving ideas
Stirred into a fully cooked pasta sauce
Added to a simmered soup or stew for depth
Mixed into a marinade for cooked meats
Blended into a slow-cooked chili
Used as a base for a homemade pizza sauce
Safety
Wash thoroughly before use.
Check that cans or tubes of tomato paste are unopened and undamaged before purchase, and inspect for dents or bulging which can indicate spoilage. Once opened, transfer unused paste to a sealed container and refrigerate, using within about a week, or freeze in small portions for later use. Always cook tomato paste into your dish rather than eating it raw from the can, as heat helps develop flavor and safety. Wash your hands and utensils after handling opened cans.
Common questions
Is tomato paste safe during pregnancy?Yes, tomato paste cooked into dishes is a safe and nutritious way to add flavor and vitamins during pregnancy.
Can I eat tomato paste straight from the can?It's best cooked into a dish first; this improves both flavor and food safety after the can is opened.
Does tomato paste have a lot of sodium?Some brands add salt, so checking labels and choosing no-salt-added versions can help you manage sodium intake.
Did you know?
Tomato paste is made by cooking down tomatoes for hours to remove water and concentrate flavor.
Its deep red color comes from lycopene, a plant compound found in tomatoes.
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