Industrial tomato harvest ends 2024 with stable production

The 2024 industrial tomato harvest closed with a production of 1,7 million tons, a number that, although stable compared to previous years, reflects a market on alert. Tomate BR, the Brazilian association of processors and users of industrial tomatoes, consolidated the data collected from 21 industrial groups, which correspond to 100% of the industrial tomatoes processed in Brazil.

With a cultivated area of ​​18,7 thousand hectares, the results are back to 2022 levels, but in a scenario marked by adverse weather and agronomic conditions. “Heavy rains at the beginning of the year delayed the transplanting of seedlings and, with high temperatures, the proliferation of pests such as whiteflies resulted in the eradication of 800 hectares of crops. Despite the efforts of producers, the scenario was one of significant difficulties”, explained Vlamir Breternitz, director of Tomate BR.

While Goiás and Minas Gerais recorded a slight recovery in volumes (13% and 11%, respectively), São Paulo, the third largest producer, saw a 6% drop in the harvest. These figures, combined with the competitive international context and high production costs, limit the sector's ability to sustain solid growth.

Change in the basic food basket generates controversy

In addition to the difficulties in production, the inclusion of tomato paste in the basic food basket as a replacement for tomato sauce has brought new concerns to the market. Although paste is a product that makes up the tomato products market, tomato sauce dominates national consumption, representing 91% of the volume sold.

The change was met with criticism from both the industry and experts in nutrition and food economics. Tomato sauce is considered more suitable for the needs of Brazilian families, especially those on low incomes, because it is practical, affordable and already seasoned, which makes it easier and cheaper to prepare quick and nutritious meals.

“This decision ignores the eating habits of most families, who depend on tomato sauce as a simple and economical solution in their daily lives. Furthermore, shifting the focus to the extract could negatively impact the industry, which will have to adapt to an artificial demand that is misaligned with real consumer preferences,” Breternitz highlighted.

The measure also raises questions about the impact on women's daily lives, as they often take on the responsibility of managing their family's diet. Preparing food with tomato paste requires more time and resources, which goes against the goal of facilitating access to a decent and practical diet.

Worrying projections for 2025

The 2024 harvest may be seen as a temporary “breathing opportunity” for the sector, but the outlook for 2025 is for a decline. Tomate BR estimates a 10% reduction in the cultivated area, driven by forecasts of drought, heat waves and an increase in pests. “The sector needs policies that are more aligned with the real needs of families and robust strategies to face production challenges,” concluded Breternitz.

The current context highlights the need for a more attentive dialogue between the market, public policies and consumers, ensuring not only the strengthening of the industry, but also access to practical and dignified food for the population.