Present at tables around the world, ketchup has become one of the most popular contention for contemporary diet. Used as informal meals or based on various recipes, its sweet and slightly acidic flavor has gained different generations and adapts to a wide variety of dishes. The versatility of ketchup, coupled with its constant presence in domestic and commercial contexts, has turned it into an essential product in the pantry of many families.
Ketchup Rubies in the Rubble was distinguished as the best of the United Kingdom by The Sunday Times. But what surprises many consumers is the fact that this product, with British seal, is made with 100% Portuguese tomatoes.
The production is ensured by Casa Mendes Gonçalves, based in Golegã, and the distribution in Portugal has begun.
National production with sustainable base
According to Rubies in the Rubble, the ketchup now available in Portugal is fully made with Portuguese tomatoes, cultivated and transformed into a national territory.
The production takes place at the facilities of Casa Mendes Gonçalves, a company that has also been part of the brand since 2024.
According to the same source, the decision to bring the product to Portugal integrates a strategy of internationalization and appreciation of local ingredients, with a production model based on sustainability criteria.
Sugar replaced by surplus fruit
The company explains that, contrary to what is usual, Ketchup Rubies in the Rubble does not use refined sugar exclusively.
Instead, part of the sweetener is replaced by apple and pear puree, fruits considered imperfect or surplus of the agricultural chain.
It refers to the same source that this replacement allows to reduce the product’s sugar content and at the same time giving new life to foods that would otherwise be wasted.
It adds the publication that this practice has already contributed to avoid the waste of over 951 tons of fruit and the emission of more than 800 tons of carbon dioxide.
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According to Ricardo Ferreira, director-general of MG Foods & Care, the integration of national production with the sustainable values of Rubies in the Rubble represents a strategic alignment with the future of food.
The official stresses that this partnership “reinforces the bet on products with Portuguese origin and environmental commitment, without abdicating the quality or taste”.
Exclusive on Portuguese shelves
According to the brand, ketchup is only for sale at El Corte Inglés physical stores in Lisbon and Gaia.
This limited distribution is part of the initial launch strategy in Portugal, with a future expansion.
According to the same source, the reception to the product has been positive, in particular among consumers attentive to the nutritional profile and food sustainability.
From the field to the shelf, with conscience
As explained by, this initiative reinforces the role of Portugal in the value chain of international brands with environmental concerns.
By assuming the local production of a strong presence in other European markets, the company expects to consolidate its position as a partner in sustainable food innovation.
Based on international recognition and national production, Ketchup Rubies in the Rubble is an example of how taste, origin and responsibility can coexist in the same bottle.
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