Consumer Goods (02:42)

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Approximately 90% of products originates in other countries. Farmers worldwide produce around 160 million tons of tomatoes; the Dutch are one of the leading producers in Europe. Tomatoes originate from South and Central America.

Dutch Greenhouses (04:26)

Greenhouses produce approximately 1,000 tons of tomatoes every year; tomatoes grow on steel wool. Theo van Noord produces two varieties. Aad Dukker's family business specializes in San Marzano tomatoes, producing 450,000 tons a year.

The Greenery (02:39)

The international fruit trader obtains products from 1,250 farms, including over 100 varieties of tomatoes. It supplies supermarkets, wholesalers, and the food industry; maximum storage time is two days after harvest. The U.S. produces around 25 million tons of tomatoes a year.

Tomato Production (02:54)

Holland's agricultural technology allows it to produce 2.5 times the European average. Dukker discusses changes after a scandal in the 1980s. Learn how high-tech greenhouses work.

Tomato World (03:06)

The information center educates visitors on all aspects of tomatoes. Workers in the neighboring greenhouse test new varieties. A California tomato company produces everything itself to reduce risk exposure on the fields; it takes 17 weeks for the plants to reach maturity.

Harvest to Market (02:59)

Van Noord produces approximately 1,000 tons of tomatoes yearly. The fruits are packed minutes after harvest, taking a maximum of three days to go from field to supermarket.

Growth and Distribution (02:35)

The Greenery trades 150,000 tons of over 100 tomato varieties annually; truss tomatoes are its best seller. In the 15th century, explorers introduce tomatoes to Europe. A typical European consumes 25 kilograms of tomatoes every year on average.

Werder Ketchup (05:08)

The plant processes tomato concentrate from southern Europe, producing up to 120,000 bottles of ketchup every day; the company does not use preservatives. Germany is the largest consumer in Europe. Ketchup originates from Asia.

Space Food (05:10)

The European Space Agency commissions foods by Italian chefs. Experts work to produce meals that last 18 to 24 months; each astronaut receives 500 packages for a six month mission. Experts discuss space food production.

Fruit Trader (03:05)

The Greenery exchanges over 200 products and offers over 100 tomato varieties; Germany is an important trade partner. A Dutch company exports a variety of canned tomatoes; waste becomes compost and water is recycled.

Leading German Juice Producer (04:05)

Albi produces approximately 3.5 million liters of tomato juice annually; every German airline sells Albi products. Albi obtains tomatoes from southern Europe.

German Retailer (03:03)

Coop receives approximately 300 pallets every day and delivers to 250 supermarkets in northern Germany; getting items out on time is the biggest challenge. Tomatoes are a popular item.

Albi Tomato Juice (02:14)

Holland tomatoes arrive as concentrate at the German juice production company; quality control is vital. Experts discuss packaging and distribution.

Central Storage Unit (04:41)

Coop trades approximately 450 types of fruits and vegetables, including 50 to 60 varieties of tomatoes. Greenhouse technology in Holland allows tomato production all year; clients will pay a premium for gourmet varieties. Home deliveries are a new trend.

Credits: Where It Comes From - Tomato Heroes (01:10)

Credits: Where It Comes From - Tomato Heroes