“This is a tragic case and we expect the Italian authorities to carry out a full investigation,” said Zoe Maddison, spokesperson for the British Retail Consortium (BRC) which represents Tesco and Sainsbury’s to The Guardian.

“The welfare of all people who work in our supply chains is of key importance to us, and BRC members will investigate any allegations of malpractice.”

Italy makes a €3.2bn (£2.85bn) profit from the processed tomato industry each year.

Images: Rex Features and iStock

You need to read this before you buy another tin of tomatoes