Abstract

A. A Onyeaghala, I. F Ijagbone and Chima O. Kalu

Tomato paste is a good source of lycopene and vitamin C. These are antioxidants which limit the adverse effects of free radicals. It had been reported that tomato products imported into Nigeria were adulterated and substandard, but these claims have not been supported using evidence based study. Twenty eight different tomato products were identified. Of these numbers, sixteen were randomly selected. Five tins and sachets of each of these products were purchased respectively and used for analyses. All the products were registered with NAFDAC. Among the products investigated, there were significant differences in moisture, Lycopene, total sugar, starch, vitamin C and acidity (P0.05), but those imported from China were significantly higher in total sugar and starch, but significantly lower in lycopene (P< 0.05). Variations in content between tin and sachet of the same brand and between different batches of the same product were observed. The need to patronize and support local made products while tightening regulatory processes of products imported into the country becomes imperative.