Why is Fig Roll Biscuits classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The biscuits are made from refined flours, added sugars, palm oil and several processing aids, which places them in the ultra‑processed NOVA 4 category. The label lists three additives: citric acid (E330) as an acidity regulator, sodium hydrogen carbonate (E500ii) as a raising agent, and ammonium bicarbonate (E503ii) as another leavening agent.

How does the high sugar and moderate salt content of Fig Roll Biscuits affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

With 36.2 g of sugar per 100 g, the biscuits can cause rapid blood‑glucose spikes, making them unsuitable for people managing diabetes. The salt level (0.45 g per 100 g) is lower than many snacks but still contributes to daily sodium intake, so hypertensive individuals should limit consumption.

Based on its ingredient list, is Fig Roll Biscuits suitable for vegan, keto, or gluten‑free diets?

No. The product contains whey powder derived from cow's milk, so it is not vegan. It includes wheat flour and therefore contains gluten, ruling out a gluten‑free diet. Its high carbohydrate (66 g) and sugar (36.2 g) content also makes it incompatible with keto dietary guidelines.

Sainsburys • 200g

Fig Roll Biscuits

Sugary Snacks

Product Insights

Fig Roll Biscuits are an organic, USDA‑certified sweet snack consisting primarily of figs, fortified wheat flour, sugar and palm oil. They belong to the Sugary snacks – Biscuits and cakes group, carry a Nutri‑Score of E and are classified as NOVA 4, indicating an ultra‑processed product with three listed additives (citric acid, sodium hydrogen carbonate and ammonium bicarbonate). While the biscuits provide 3.5 g of fiber per 100 g and have lower fat, saturated fat, salt and calories than the average snack, they are high in sugars (36.2 g) and contain dairy (whey powder) and gluten, which may be concerns for certain diets.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

high

Sugars

high

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal393 kcal

Fat11.4 g

Saturated Fat5.2 g

Carbohydrates66 g

Sugars36.2 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the typical snack category averages, this biscuit contains markedly more sugars (36.2 g vs 28.98 g), less total fat (11.4 g vs 17.65 g), lower saturated fat (5.2 g vs 7.8 g), considerably less salt (0.45 g vs 1.98 g) and provides fewer calories (393 kcal vs 418 kcal).

Ingredients

Fig (32%), Fortified Wheat Flour (Wheat Flour, Calcium Carbonate, Iron, Niacin, Thiamin), Sugar, Palm Oil, Glucose Syrup, Partially Inverted Refiners Syrup, Whey Powder (Cows' Milk), Salt, Raising Agents: Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate, Ammonium Bicarbonate; Acidity Regulator: Citric Acid. SUPPORTS Allergy advice: For allergens, including cereals containing gluten, see ingredients in bold. The palm oil used in this product supports the SUSTAINABLE production of sustainable palm oil from well managed plantations. Together we can protect the world's forests and avoid deforestation. PALM OIL TRAY Re FILM RE Don't re We're s If you refund. Your st Packed Sainsb London Superm Belfast www.s

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