ANICAV: The Largest Association of Canned Vegetable Industries in Italy and Europe
ANICAV (Associazione Nazionale Industriali Conserve Alimentari Vegetali) is the largest association representing vegetable canning industries in Italy and Europe, with a primary focus on processed tomato products. Based in Naples, Italy, ANICAV brings together over 150 companies that account for more than 60% of all Italian processed tomato production. The association works to protect, promote, and enhance the quality of Italian canned tomatoes while ensuring compliance with international food safety and sustainability standards.
Core Mission & Industry Leadership
ANICAV is committed to:
- Advocating for the interests of the Italian tomato processing industry on both national and international levels.
- Ensuring adherence to high-quality food production standards, including PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) and PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) certifications.
- Driving innovation and sustainability initiatives within the industry to maintain Italy’s competitive edge in the global market.
- Promoting Italian canned tomatoes worldwide, particularly in North America, Europe, and Asia.
Market Positioning & Global Influence
ANICAV plays a strategic role in supporting Italian tomato processors, ensuring that authentic Italian canned tomato products remain a global benchmark for quality and traceability. The association works closely with major retailers, food distributors, and global institutions to strengthen the Italian tomato supply chain.
Key market segments include:
- Retail and supermarket chains stocking authentic Italian tomato products.
- Foodservice operators, restaurants, and catering companies requiring high-quality canned tomato ingredients.
- Exporters and international buyers, particularly in North America, Asia, and Europe.
Italian Tomato Industry & Market Insights
- Italy is the world’s second-largest producer of processed tomatoes, with an annual production of over 5 million tons.
- The Italian canned tomato sector exports over 60% of its production, generating more than €3.5 billion in annual exports.
- The European Union accounts for 60% of Italian tomato exports, followed by North America (20%) and Asia (15%).
- The Campania, Emilia-Romagna, and Apulia regions are the top producers of processed tomatoes in Italy.
Export & Global Expansion
ANICAV actively promotes Italian canned tomato products through strategic marketing campaigns, trade fair participation, and global partnerships. The association has launched major international initiatives, including:
- "Red Gold from Europe" – A promotional campaign targeting Japan, the United States, and Canada, highlighting the quality, authenticity, and sustainability of Italian processed tomatoes.
- Strong presence at global trade shows, including SIAL, Anuga, Gulfood, and Fancy Food Show.
- Collaboration with international food institutions, ensuring compliance with EU, U.S., and Asian import standards.
Quality Certifications & Compliance
ANICAV ensures that all member companies comply with the highest international food safety and quality assurance standards, including:
- HACCP Certification – Ensuring food safety risk management.
- ISO 22000 Certification – Compliance with international food safety management standards.
- BRC (British Retail Consortium) & IFS (International Featured Standards) – Required for major global retailers.
- EU Organic Certification – Meeting the highest organic food production standards.
- PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) & PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) – Guaranteeing authenticity of Italian canned tomatoes.
Industry Recognition & Testimonials
ANICAV is recognized as the leading authority in Italian canned tomato processing, receiving widespread acclaim from retailers, chefs, and global food experts.
- “ANICAV has played a crucial role in elevating Italian processed tomatoes to a global benchmark of quality and authenticity.” – European Food Distributor
- “Italy’s canned tomatoes are a staple in our kitchens, and ANICAV ensures that they remain true to tradition and sustainability.” – Michelin-Star Chef
- “The ‘Red Gold from Europe’ campaign has been instrumental in educating international consumers about the value of Italian processed tomatoes.” – U.S. Food Importer
Achievements & Global Impact
- Represents over 60% of Italian processed tomato production, making it the largest association in the sector.
- Over €3.5 billion in annual exports, reinforcing Italy’s dominance in the global canned tomato industry.
- Strategic collaborations with the Italian government, EU institutions, and international trade organizations.
- Ongoing sustainability initiatives, promoting water conservation, responsible farming, and eco-friendly packaging solutions.
With its commitment to quality, sustainability, and international market growth, ANICAV continues to lead the way in promoting and protecting the Italian canned tomato industry, ensuring that authentic Italian processed tomato products maintain their global reputation for excellence.