A carotenoid-rich tomato sauce made from vine-ripened tomatoes reduced liver fat by nearly three times more than regular tomato sauce in a 12-week study of 98 adults with fatty liver disease. According to Gram Research analysis, participants eating OsteoCol® tomato sauce decreased their liver fat measurement by 33 units compared to 12 units in the placebo group, suggesting this nutrient-packed food could be a practical dietary tool for managing metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease.
Researchers tested a special tomato sauce made from vine-ripened tomatoes to see if it could help people with a common liver condition called MASLD (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease), where fat builds up in the liver. In a 12-week study with 98 adults, those who ate the carotenoid-rich tomato sauce called OsteoCol® had significantly more liver fat reduction compared to those eating regular tomato sauce. According to Gram Research analysis, the special sauce reduced liver fat by nearly three times more than the placebo, suggesting that this nutrient-packed tomato product could be a simple dietary tool for managing this increasingly common liver problem.
Key Statistics
A 2026 randomized controlled trial of 98 adults found that a carotenoid-rich tomato sauce (OsteoCol®) reduced liver fat content by 33 units on the CAP measurement scale, compared to only 12 units in the regular tomato sauce control group—nearly three times greater improvement (p = 0.014).
In the same 2026 study of 98 participants with MASLD, men showed even greater liver fat reduction than women when consuming the carotenoid-rich tomato sauce, and adults aged 60 and older experienced better outcomes than younger participants.
Laboratory testing in the 2026 study demonstrated that OsteoCol® extract significantly reduced intracellular fat accumulation in liver cancer cells and normal hepatic cells by modulating lipogenesis, β-oxidation, and cholesterol synthesis pathways.
A 2026 clinical trial found that the benefits of carotenoid-rich tomato sauce were greatest in individuals with normal weight or mild overweight and those with mild hepatic steatosis at baseline, suggesting the intervention may be most effective in earlier stages of liver fat accumulation.
The Quick Take
- What they studied: Whether a special tomato sauce made from fully ripened tomatoes could reduce the amount of fat stored in the livers of people with a condition called MASLD (when the liver accumulates too much fat due to metabolic problems).
- Who participated: 98 adults with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease were randomly divided into two groups. One group ate the special carotenoid-rich tomato sauce (OsteoCol®) for 12 weeks, while the other group ate regular commercial tomato sauce as a comparison.
- Key finding: People eating the special tomato sauce reduced their liver fat content by 33 units on the measurement scale, compared to only 12 units in the regular sauce group—nearly three times more improvement (p = 0.014, meaning this difference is statistically significant and not due to chance).
- What it means for you: If you have fatty liver disease, eating this type of carotenoid-rich tomato sauce might help reduce liver fat without medication. However, this is one study, so talk to your doctor before making major dietary changes. The benefits appeared strongest in men, people over 60, and those with milder liver fat accumulation.
The Research Details
This was a randomized controlled trial, which is one of the strongest types of medical studies. Researchers randomly assigned 98 adults with MASLD into two equal groups. One group consumed OsteoCol®, a specially made tomato sauce from vine-ripened tomatoes that contains high levels of carotenoids (natural plant pigments), while the other group received regular commercial tomato sauce as a placebo (fake treatment). Neither the participants nor the researchers knew who was getting which sauce until the study ended—this is called “double-blind” and helps prevent bias.
The study lasted 12 weeks. Researchers measured liver fat content using a special ultrasound technique called transient elastography, which shows how much fat is in the liver without needing surgery. They also measured blood sugar, cholesterol, and liver enzymes at the beginning and end of the study to see if the sauce affected other health markers.
To understand how the tomato sauce worked, researchers also tested it in laboratory cells from liver cancer and normal liver tissue. This helped them see the biological mechanisms—the actual ways the tomato compounds reduced fat accumulation in liver cells.
This study design is important because it compares the special tomato sauce directly against a placebo using the same measurement method for everyone. The double-blind approach prevents expectations from influencing results. Testing the sauce in actual liver cells helps explain not just that it works, but how it works at the cellular level. This combination of human and laboratory evidence makes the findings more credible.
Strengths: The study was registered before it started (ISRCTN10483954), which prevents researchers from changing their methods after seeing results. It was published in a peer-reviewed journal (European Journal of Nutrition), meaning other experts reviewed it. The double-blind design reduces bias. Limitations: The sample size of 98 is moderate—larger studies would provide stronger evidence. The study lasted only 12 weeks, so we don’t know if benefits continue longer. It was conducted in one location, so results may not apply to all populations equally. The study was retrospectively registered (after starting), which is less ideal than prospective registration.
What the Results Show
The main finding was clear: people eating OsteoCol® tomato sauce reduced their liver fat significantly more than those eating regular sauce. The special sauce group’s liver fat measurement (CAP score) decreased by 33 units on average, while the regular sauce group decreased by only 12 units—meaning the special sauce worked nearly three times better (p = 0.014).
The benefits were not equal for everyone. Men showed even greater improvements than women. Adults aged 60 and older had better results than younger adults. Interestingly, people with normal weight or slight overweight saw better improvements than those with obesity. People who started with mild liver fat accumulation benefited more than those with severe accumulation.
The laboratory studies provided insight into why this worked. When researchers applied OsteoCol® extract to liver cancer cells and normal liver cells, the extract reduced the amount of fat that accumulated inside the cells. The tomato compounds appeared to work by changing how cells make and break down fat, and by affecting cholesterol production pathways.
While the study focused on liver fat reduction, researchers also measured other health markers like blood glucose, cholesterol levels, and liver enzymes. The abstract doesn’t provide detailed results for these secondary outcomes, but the fact that they were measured suggests the researchers were checking whether the tomato sauce affected overall metabolic health beyond just liver fat.
Previous research has shown that lycopene (the red pigment in tomatoes) has antioxidant properties that could help the liver. However, most earlier studies were done in laboratory settings or animals, not in people. This study is notable because it tests a real food product in actual humans with the disease. The use of vine-ripened tomatoes is also important—previous research suggested that fully ripened tomatoes contain more lycopene than those picked early, so this study specifically tested whether that higher lycopene content makes a practical difference in people.
The study lasted only 12 weeks, so we don’t know if the benefits continue if people keep eating the sauce, or if they fade over time. The sample of 98 people is moderate-sized; larger studies would provide more confidence. The study doesn’t tell us the optimal amount of sauce to eat or whether regular tomato sauce with added lycopene would work similarly. The benefits varied by age, sex, and weight status, so results may not apply equally to everyone. Finally, the study was conducted in what appears to be a single location, so results may differ in other populations with different genetics or lifestyles.
The Bottom Line
If you have been diagnosed with MASLD (fatty liver disease), incorporating carotenoid-rich tomato products into your diet appears to be a safe, evidence-based strategy worth discussing with your doctor. The evidence is moderate strength—this is one solid study, but more research is needed. This should complement, not replace, other liver-healthy habits like maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol, and managing blood sugar. The benefits appear strongest if you’re male, over 60, or have mild liver fat accumulation.
This research is most relevant for adults diagnosed with MASLD who are looking for dietary approaches to manage their condition. It may be particularly helpful for those who prefer food-based interventions over medications. People with severe liver disease should discuss this with their hepatologist before making changes. Those with tomato allergies obviously should not use this product. Healthy people without liver disease don’t need this specialized product, though regular tomatoes are nutritious for everyone.
In this study, measurable improvements in liver fat appeared after 12 weeks of regular consumption. You shouldn’t expect overnight results—give it at least 8-12 weeks of consistent use before assessing whether it’s helping. Long-term benefits beyond 12 weeks are unknown, so ongoing monitoring with your doctor is important.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can tomato sauce help reduce fatty liver disease?
A 2026 study found that carotenoid-rich tomato sauce from vine-ripened tomatoes reduced liver fat nearly three times more than regular sauce over 12 weeks. The special sauce (OsteoCol®) decreased liver fat measurements by 33 units versus 12 units in the control group, suggesting it may help manage fatty liver disease when combined with other healthy habits.
How much tomato sauce do I need to eat to help my liver?
The 2026 study used a specific carotenoid-rich tomato sauce (OsteoCol®) over 12 weeks, but the exact daily amount isn’t detailed in the abstract. Results appeared after 12 weeks of regular consumption. Discuss appropriate portions with your doctor, as individual needs vary based on your weight, age, and disease severity.
Is regular tomato sauce as good as the special carotenoid-rich kind?
The study compared carotenoid-rich tomato sauce from vine-ripened tomatoes to regular commercial sauce. The special sauce worked nearly three times better at reducing liver fat. Regular tomato sauce showed minimal benefit, suggesting the higher carotenoid content in vine-ripened tomatoes matters for liver health benefits.
Who benefits most from carotenoid-rich tomato sauce for liver disease?
The 2026 study found greatest benefits in men, adults over 60, people with normal weight or mild overweight, and those with mild liver fat accumulation at the start. If you’re a woman, younger, have obesity, or severe liver disease, benefits may be smaller—discuss with your doctor whether this approach suits your situation.
How long does it take to see improvements in liver fat from tomato sauce?
The 2026 study measured improvements after 12 weeks of regular consumption. You shouldn’t expect immediate results—allow at least 8-12 weeks of consistent use before assessing effectiveness. Work with your doctor to monitor liver fat using ultrasound imaging to track actual progress over time.
Want to Apply This Research?
- Track weekly servings of carotenoid-rich tomato products consumed (aim for 3-4 servings per week based on the study protocol). Log the specific product type and portion size. This creates accountability and helps identify patterns between consumption and how you feel.
- Set a specific goal like ‘Add one serving of carotenoid-rich tomato sauce to dinner 4 times per week.’ Start by identifying recipes you enjoy that use tomato sauce (pasta, soups, stews, rice dishes). Plan your weekly meals to include these recipes. Use the app to send reminders on your planned tomato sauce days.
- Beyond app tracking, work with your doctor to measure liver fat content every 3-6 months using the same ultrasound technique (transient elastography) used in this study. Track blood work markers like liver enzymes and glucose levels. Note any changes in energy levels, digestion, or how you feel. Create a simple monthly check-in where you review your tomato sauce consumption against any improvements in lab work or symptoms.
This research describes findings from a single 12-week clinical trial and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a serious medical condition that requires diagnosis and monitoring by a qualified healthcare provider. Before making significant dietary changes or starting any new food-based treatment, consult with your doctor or hepatologist, especially if you have severe liver disease, take medications, or have other health conditions. While this tomato sauce showed promise in this study, it should complement—not replace—established treatments like weight management, exercise, blood sugar control, and limiting alcohol. Results may vary based on individual factors including age, sex, weight, disease severity, and overall lifestyle. This article is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice.
This research translation is published by Gram Research, the science division of Gram, an AI-powered nutrition tracking app.