What Does Brix Mean in Tomato Paste?
Brix indicates the concentration level of tomato paste, specifically the percentage of soluble solids (mainly natural sugars and nutrients).
- Higher Brix → thicker texture, stronger flavor
- Lower Brix → lighter consistency, lower cost
Higher Brix also means more tomatoes are used per kilogram of finished product, resulting in higher production cost and higher lycopene content.
Quick Comparison of Brix Levels
| Brix Level | Concentration | Texture | Typical Use | Packaging |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22–24% | Low | Thinner | Retail / low-cost markets | Sachet / small cans |
| 28–30% | Medium | Thick | Standard cooking / retail | Cans / drums |
| 36–38% | High | Very thick | Industrial processing | Aseptic drums |
22–24% Brix Tomato Paste
This is a less concentrated and more economical option, widely used in price-sensitive markets.
Key characteristics:
- Thinner consistency
- Lower production cost
- Suitable for high-frequency consumption
Typical applications:
- Retail markets (especially Africa)
- Sachet packaging (e.g., 70g)
- Daily household cooking
28–30% Brix Tomato Paste
This is the standard “double concentrated” tomato paste, widely used across global markets.
Key characteristics:
- Thick, smooth texture
- Balanced flavor and cost
- Most versatile Brix level
Typical applications:
- Retail canned tomato paste
- Catering and restaurant use
- Export markets including Africa and Middle East
This is the most commonly traded Brix level in international markets
36–38% Brix Tomato Paste
This is a highly concentrated “triple concentrate” tomato paste, mainly used as an industrial raw material.
Key characteristics:
- Extremely thick and dense
- Very strong flavor intensity
- Low moisture content
Typical applications:
- Food processing and manufacturing
- Sauce production (ketchup, paste-based products)
- Repacking and dilution
Usually supplied in 220L aseptic bags in iron drums
Key Differences Between Brix Levels
✔ Viscosity (Thickness)
- 22–24% → relatively thin
- 28–30% → thick and smooth
- 36–38% → extremely thick
✔ Application
- 22–24% → retail and low-cost markets
- 28–30% → standard canned tomato paste
- 36–38% → industrial processing
✔ Flavor Intensity
- Increases with Brix level
- Higher Brix = richer and more concentrated taste
Packaging and Processing Options
Tomato paste with different Brix levels can be supplied in various packaging formats:
- Aseptic bags in drums (220L) → for bulk and industrial use
- Canned packaging (70g–4500g) → for retail and food service
Processing Types
- Cold Break
- Higher viscosity
- Suitable for thick sauces
- Hot Break
- Better color and stability
- Suitable for ketchup and processed products
How to Choose the Right Brix Level?
Your choice should depend on your target market and application:
- Retail / Africa markets → 22–24% or 28–30%
- General export & canned products → 28–30%
- Food processing / industrial use → 36–38%
28–30% is the most balanced and widely accepted option
Get the Right Tomato Paste for Your Market
We supply canned and bulk tomato paste in different Brix levels, suitable for:
- Retail distribution
- Catering and wholesale
- Industrial processing
Contact us to get:
- Product recommendations
- Latest pricing
- Customized packaging solutions
