Description
Origin and selection
Sun-dried tomatoes imported from non-EU countries are a strategic reference in the Palimex product portfolio, valued for their intense flavour and versatility. Our selection follows strict criteria: we work with reliable, certified suppliers who adopt sustainable farming practices and comply with international food safety standards. Every batch is traceable from origin and undergoes continuous quality control to ensure food safety and high kitchen performance. Our goal is to offer a standardised-quality product that preserves the authentic nutritional and sensory features of the original ingredient.
Production process and growing conditions
The tomatoes used for drying come from agriculturally privileged areas, where climate, elevation and soil quality support healthy and natural growth. The most commonly used variety is plum tomato, ideal for drying due to its thin skin, dense pulp and low water content. After harvest, tomatoes are halved and dried slowly in the sun or on ventilated racks, using traditional methods, until they lose 80–90% of their water content. This process concentrates nutrients, maintains fruit structure, and enhances aroma and colour. The result is a natural, shelf-stable, flavour-rich and ready-to-use ingredient.
Cuts and applications
To meet the needs of various professional sectors, Palimex offers different formats: whole sun-dried tomatoes – ideal for salads, antipasti, finger foods and gourmet decoration; sliced halves – perfect for sauces, pizzas, fillings, ready meals or Mediterranean dishes; and purée – a practical solution for the food industry and collective catering, used in spreads, patés, sauces or seasoning blends. The product is available dry, rehydrated, or preserved in oil, depending on production requirements and usage preferences.
Supply availability
One of the main advantages of non-EU sun-dried tomatoes is their year-round availability. Thanks to their long shelf life and carefully planned imports, Palimex ensures continuous supply, even during months when European production is absent or limited. This is a major asset for companies operating with seasonal cycles or planning production schedules in advance.
Nutritional values and health
Sun-dried tomatoes are a natural concentrate of nutrients. They are rich in lycopene – a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative stress and supports cardiovascular health. They also contain high levels of vitamins A, C, K and the B-complex, as well as key minerals like iron, potassium, magnesium and phosphorus. Their fibre content aids digestion and promotes satiety, making them useful in low-calorie diets. Energy-wise, they provide around 200–210 kcal per 100 g, with a good share of plant-based proteins and very low fat content.
Functional benefits
Regular consumption of sun-dried tomatoes can support several health aspects. Fibre stimulates intestinal activity and helps prevent constipation. Lycopene supports heart health, regulates cholesterol and acts as an anti-inflammatory. Folate and B vitamins promote cell metabolism, while minerals contribute to fluid and electrolyte balance. Sun-dried tomatoes are naturally gluten-free, vegan and suitable for special dietary needs.
Advantages for industry and foodservice
Long shelf life, high yield and ease of use make sun-dried tomatoes a valuable ingredient for professional kitchens, canning companies and industrial food lines. The product is ready to use, requires no complex processing, and allows for consistent quality with low operational costs. Due to its intense flavour, only small amounts are needed to enrich recipes, reducing waste and improving sustainability.
Logistics and compliance
Palimex manages every logistic phase efficiently and reliably – from field inspection and packaging to customs handling and storage at our logistics platforms. Each batch undergoes microbiological and chemical-physical analyses to ensure full compliance with EU food safety regulations. Complete traceability is guaranteed, and every shipment is accompanied by the necessary documentation to ensure transparency, legal compliance and product reliability.
Why choose Palimex
Choosing Palimex sun-dried tomatoes means choosing quality, reliability and tailored support. We offer a comprehensive service from raw material selection to technical consulting, with a focus on customer-specific operational needs. Our experience in fruit and vegetable import/export, combined with a well-established logistics network, enables us to deliver customised solutions for all sectors: food industry, modern distribution, professional catering and processing. Our team is always available to help you find the most suitable format and treatment for your business.
