A Squeeze of History: The Tube vs. Bottle Debate in Europe Ketchup, a staple condiment in many American households, has a peculiar packaging preference in Europe. While the iconic red sauce is a staple in U.S. kitchens, often found in bottles, Europeans seem to prefer their ketchup in a tube. But what drives this difference? The answer lies in the continent's unique cultural and historical context. In the UK and other parts of Europe, Heinz, the world's largest ketchup manufacturer, has traditionally packaged its product in tubes, a format that dates back to the 19th century. But why the switch? Read on to discover the fascinating story behind the tube vs. bottle debate in Europe.


Ketchup is a popular condiment in the U.S. and Europe, but you'll only find it in a tube in Europe - apart from imported goods. Here's why.