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San Marzano tomatoes have a rich history that dates back to the early 18th century in Italy. They are named after the town of San Marzano sul Sarno, near Naples, where they were first grown. These tomatoes are renowned for their sweet flavor, low acidity, and meaty texture, making them ideal for sauces and Italian cuisine.

The original San Marzano tomato seeds were brought to Italy from Peru in 1770. Over time, they were cultivated and perfected in the volcanic soil of the Campania region, which contributed to their unique taste and quality. San Marzano tomatoes are often considered the gold standard for tomato sauces, especially in traditional Neapolitan pizza.
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Their authenticity is protected by the European Union's Denomination of Protected Origin (DOP) status, ensuring that only tomatoes grown in the specific region and meeting strict criteria can be labeled as San Marzano. This designation helps preserve the heritage and quality of these prized tomatoes.
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Have you ever tried cooking with San Marzano tomatoes? 🍅

This summer of 2026, something extraordinary happened in the fields of the Agro Sarnese-Nocerino: San Marzano farmers started harvesting tomatoes in the middle of the night.

Italy was hit by blistering temperatures, and the heat was particularly brutal in the fields around Mount Vesuvius. The farmers of Gustarosso were not discouraged: headlamps on, they started picking tomatoes from 3 AM to 10 AM, and again from sunset until 10 PM.

This wasn't about getting a jump on the harvest. This is what we call heroic agriculture. It was about keeping farmers safe and getting the tomatoes off the vines before the heat could put the entire production at risk. San Marzano tomatoes are famously delicate, so the extreme weather took its toll, with the cooperative estimating crop losses of around 20%.

And yet, somehow, the farmers came through with tomatoes of exceptional quality. By adapting to the heat and working around the clock, they harvested what Paolo Ruggiero describes as one of the best vintages ever.

This is exactly why we believe so fiercely in farmer-made food and the people behind it. A can of real San Marzano is more than tomatoes. It carries the volcanic soil of Campania, generations of agricultural knowledge, and the ingenuity of farmers who know how to adapt when nature throws them a curveball.

For us, every can is a way to support the people working to keep extraordinary food traditions alive while protecting the land that makes them possible. Grazie, as always, to Paolo and all the farmers of Gustarosso.

​https://news.italianfood.net/category/product/

Italy is renowned for its high-quality PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) balsamic vinegars, particularly from the Modena and Reggio Emilia regions. Here are some of the top companies known for their exceptional PDO balsamic vinegars:

1. Acetaia Malpighi: Established in 1850, this family-run company in Modena is famous for its Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena DOP. They offer tours and tastings to showcase their products[1].
   
2. Acetaia Giusti: Founded in 1605, Giusti is one of the oldest balsamic vinegar producers in the world. They are known for their high-quality, traditionally aged balsamic vinegars[2].
   
3. Acetaia del Cristo: Specializing in Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena DOP, this company is known for its meticulous production process and high-quality products[3].
   
4. Acetaia Leonardi: This family-owned company has been producing balsamic vinegar for over 150 years. They offer a range of products, including aged balsamic vinegars[3].
   
5. Acetaia San Giacomo: Located in Reggio Emilia, this company produces Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Reggio Emilia DOP, known for its rich and complex flavors[3].
   

These companies are celebrated for their dedication to traditional methods and high standards, ensuring that their balsamic vinegars are among the best in the world. 
References
[1] Acetaia Malpighi
[2] 10 Best Balsamic Vinegars According to Italian Chefs
[3] Balsamic Vinegar Factories in Modena. The Most ... - Emilia Delizia
[4]
[5] https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g2481593-d2302420-Reviews-Acetaia_Malpighi-Province_of_Modena_Modena.html?m=17457

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About John Fugazzie
John Fugazzie brings more than 30 years of executive leadership experience in the food industry, spanning retail, manufacturing, importing, marketing, and brand development. His career includes senior leadership positions as Senior Merchandising Manager for Wakefern Food Corporation, Director of National Purchasing for A&P, General Manager of Anco Cheese Company, and Sales & Marketing Director for Schratter Foods.

Throughout his career, John has worked closely with domestic and international food producers, importers, distributors, retailers, and specialty food companies. He later founded consulting organizations including Food Marketing Partners and helping-Brands, advising companies on growth strategies, product development, supply chain management, sales, marketing, and strategic partnerships.

Drawing on decades of experience in the specialty food business, John created Authentic Italian and CheeseXchange to showcase the tradition, quality, craftsmanship, and heritage behind some of the world's finest foods, cheeses, olive oils, wines, and artisanal products.

Founded by Food Industry Veteran John Fugazzie
Few people bring together the perspectives of retailer, buyer, manufacturer, marketer, consultant, educator, and food enthusiast as uniquely as John Fugazzie.  John applies decades of food industry experience and relationships to help consumers and trade professionals discover authentic products, trusted producers, and the rich traditions that make Italian and specialty foods exceptional.

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