Advancing Industrial Tomato Production: Innovations in Sustainability and Efficiency

The National Center for Food Technology and Automation (CTAEX) is presenting five research initiatives at the World Processing Tomato Council (WPTC) Congress in Monterrey, California, this week. These studies focus on enhancing sustainability, energy efficiency, and quality control within the industrial tomato sector. By leveraging technical expertise and real-world testing environments, these projects aim to optimize production cycles and reduce the environmental footprint of tomato transformation plants globally.

Decarbonization Through Solar Thermal Energy

A primary focus of the research presented by CTAEX is the decarbonization of industrial processing. The STomSun project has successfully demonstrated the viability of generating solar steam using Fresnel collectors in a pilot plant. This technology is particularly significant for regions with high solar radiation levels, as it provides a renewable alternative to traditional energy sources for the energy-intensive process of tomato transformation. By integrating solar thermal energy, producers can decrease their reliance on fossil fuels while maintaining the high temperatures required for industrial operations.

Improving Industrial Efficiency with Thermal Storage

Beyond energy generation, CTAEX is highlighting advancements in thermal energy storage systems. These systems are designed to stabilize industrial processes that require a continuous supply of heat, such as those found in tomato processing facilities. By effectively managing thermal energy, plants can achieve greater operational consistency and efficiency. This development is a critical step toward reducing energy dependency and enhancing the overall competitiveness of the industry, ensuring that facilities can operate reliably even when solar output fluctuates.

Precision Agriculture and Quality Control

In the field, CTAEX is introducing infrared technology to measure key fruit parameters—such as degrees Brix, lycopene content, and fruit firmness—in a rapid, non-destructive manner. These tools allow farmers and processors to make data-driven decisions during the harvest, ensuring that the raw material meets specific quality standards before it reaches the plant.

Complementing this, the center is presenting a new fertilization diagnostic methodology. By analyzing the soil, plant, and fruit in tandem, this approach allows for the precise adjustment of nutrient inputs. This optimization not only improves crop yields but also promotes more sustainable agricultural practices by reducing waste and environmental runoff.

Standardizing Color Measurement for Global Markets

The industrial value of processed tomatoes often hinges on color consistency, which serves as a vital quality metric. CTAEX has conducted research into how sample preparation influences the instrumental measurement of color in crushed tomatoes. The study emphasizes the necessity of replicating real-world industrial conditions to ensure that quality assessments are accurate and comparable across different facilities. By standardizing these measurement protocols, the industry can better guarantee product quality and maintain transparency in the global supply chain.

Research Impact and Future Outlook

These five research initiatives represent a strategic effort to bridge the gap between technological innovation and practical application in the tomato industry. By validating these solutions in actual production environments, CTAEX facilitates the direct transfer of knowledge to companies and agricultural producers. As the sector moves toward 2026, these advancements in solar energy, precision farming, and quality standardization provide a roadmap for maintaining competitiveness while addressing the urgent need for more sustainable industrial processes.