Why is the Pesto classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The product contains multiple processed ingredients such as refined vegetable fibre, added sugars, cheese powders, and three food additives, E270 (lactic acid), E300 (ascorbic acid) and E330 (citric acid), which together place it in the ultra‑processed NOVA 4 category.

How do the sugar and salt levels in this pesto affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

With only 1.6 g of sugar per 100 g, the pesto adds minimal glucose load for diabetics, but its 0.55 g of salt, while lower than many sauces, can contribute to daily sodium intake and should be accounted for in a hypertension‑friendly eating plan.

Is the milk present in the Pecorino Romano and Parmigiano Reggiano cheeses a concern for people with dairy allergies?

Yes, both cheeses contain cow’s or sheep’s milk, so the pesto lists milk as an allergen and is unsuitable for anyone with a dairy allergy or those following a strict vegan diet.

Sainsbury's

Pesto

Fat And Sauces

Product Insights

Sainsbury's Pesto is a green Italian condiment made with basil, olive oil, Pecorino Romano and Parmigiano Reggiano cheeses, pine nuts, and vegetable fibre. It belongs to the Fat and sauces dietary family, carries a Nutri‑Score of C and is classified as NOVA 4, reflecting its ultra‑processed nature, high fat (30 g per 100 g), moderate saturated fat (2.3 g) and moderate salt (0.55 g) while offering low sugars and a modest amount of protein and fibre. The product also contains three additives (E270, E300, E330) and dairy allergens, confirming it is not suitable for vegan or milk‑allergic consumers.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

high

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

low

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g/ml

Energy Kcal312 kcal

Fat30 g

Saturated Fat2.3 g

Monounsaturated Fat19.5 g

Polyunsaturated Fat4.2 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average values for its category, this pesto has dramatically lower sugar (1.6 g vs 10.95 g) and salt (0.55 g vs 5.02 g) but its fat content (30 g) is more than double the typical 12 g per 100 g.

Ingredients

Basil (53%), Olive oil, Extra Virgin Olive Oil (6%), Pecorino Romano cheese (Sheep's Milk) (5%), Pine Nuts (4%), Vegetable Fibre, Sugar, Salt, Parmagiano Reggiano Cheese (cow's Milk) (1%), Potato starch, Acidity Regulator: Lactic Acid; Garlic Puree (garlic, salt, acidity regulators: lactic acid; citric acid), basil extract, Antioxidant: Ascorbic Acid.

84%

35%

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