Are these genuine San Marzano tomatoes?
SO-no VE-ri san mar-TSA-no
Asking whether tomatoes sold as San Marzano are the authentic DOP variety.
San Marzano tomatoes are a DOP-protected variety grown in the volcanic soil of the Agro Sarnese-Nocerino near Vesuvius. Many vendors sell ordinary plum tomatoes labelled 'San Marzano'. The real variety is elongated, has fewer seeds, and is less acidic. Fresh San Marzano appear in late summer.
Sono dell'Agro Sarnese?
Are they from the Agro Sarnese area?
The specific DOP growing zone near Vesuvius
Sono buoni per la salsa?
Are they good for sauce?
Asking for suitability — San Marzano are ideal
Li ha pelati anche in barattolo?
Do you have them peeled in a tin too?
Asking for the tinned version, also DOP
San Marzano tomatoes were declared DOP in 1996. The Consorzio San Marzano dell'Agro Sarnese-Nocerino certifies both fresh and tinned production. Authentic tinned San Marzano carry the DOP seal and the consorzio number — counterfeits are common worldwide.