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

The sauce combines refined oils, preserved cheese, and several food‑grade additives, which places it in NOVA 4. It lists three additives: E1105 (colorant), E270 (lactic acid as acidity regulator) and E300 (ascorbic acid as antioxidant), plus egg lysozyme used as a preservative.

How does the fat and salt content in Red Pesto affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

The high fat (26.7 g) contributes extra calories but does not directly raise blood glucose, while the moderate salt level (1.2 g) is well below typical sauce averages, making it less risky for hypertension; however, the overall calorie density and saturated fat should be considered in portion control for both conditions.

Based on its ingredients, is Red Pesto suitable for vegan, keto, or nut‑free diets?

No, the sauce contains dairy (Grana Padano and Pecorino Romano cheeses) and egg lysozyme, so it is not vegan or dairy‑free. Its low carbohydrate profile may fit a keto regimen, but the presence of cashew and pine nuts means it is not suitable for nut‑free diets.

Sainsbury's • 190g

RED PESTO

Fat And Sauces

Product Insights

Sainsbury’s Red Pesto is a ready‑to‑use red‑pesto sauce sold in a 190 g tub. It belongs to the PNNS groups Fat and sauces and Dressings and sauces, carries a Nutri‑Score of C and is classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4), with 26.7 g fat (including 3.3 g saturated fat), 1.2 g salt, 3.6 g sugars and 2.9 g protein per 100 g. The sauce provides 2.4 g fiber and 64 % fruits‑vegetables‑legumes, but its high fat and salt levels, added sugars and three additives (E1105, E270, E300) lower its overall health rating.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

high

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

low

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal284 kcal

Fat26.7 g

Saturated Fat3.3 g

Monounsaturated Fat9.2 g

Polyunsaturated Fat12.9 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average pasta‑sauce, this Red Pesto contains markedly more fat (26.7 g vs 12 g) and saturated fat (3.3 g vs 2.1 g), but far less sugar (3.6 g vs 11 g) and salt (1.2 g vs 5 g), resulting in a higher calorie density (284 kcal vs 183 kcal).

Ingredients

Tomato Paste (41%), Sunflower Oil, Rehydrated Sundried Tomatoes (8%), Tomato Purée (6%), Basil (5%), Red Peppers, Grana Padano Cheese (2%) (Grana Padano Cheese (Cows' Milk), Preservative: Egg Lysozyme), Cashew Nuts, Salt, Pecorino Romano Cheese (Sheep's Milk) (1%), Carrots, Pine Nuts, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Acidity Regulator: Lactic Acid, Paprika Powder, Pea Fibre, Sugar, Garlic Powder, Antioxidant: Ascorbic Acid.

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