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

Nilla Wafers receive a NOVA 4 rating because they are made from refined flour, contain added sugars, high‑fructose corn syrup, several emulsifiers (mono‑ and diglycerides, soy lecithin) and both artificial and natural flavorings, all of which are typical of ultra‑processed foods.

How does the sugar and salt content in Nilla Wafers affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

With 36.7 g of sugar per 100 g, Nilla Wafers can cause rapid blood glucose spikes, making them unsuitable for diabetic meal plans, while the 0.96 g of salt per 100 g contributes to sodium intake but remains below the average for sweet snacks, though it should still be limited for hypertension.

Is the wheat flour in Nilla Wafers a concern for people with gluten intolerance?

Yes, the primary ingredient is unbleached enriched wheat flour, which contains gluten; therefore, Nilla Wafers are not safe for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Nilla • 311g

Nilla Wafers

Sugary Snacks

Product Insights

Nilla Wafers are a sweet snack belonging to the Sugary snacks and Biscuits and cakes families. They carry a Nutri-Score of E and are classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA group 4), reflecting the presence of refined flour, added sugars, multiple emulsifiers and artificial flavorings. While they provide a modest amount of protein and low saturated fat, the product is high in sugar and contains common allergens such as wheat, milk, eggs and soy.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

high

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal467 kcal

Added Sugars33.3 g

Iron2.3 mg

Comparative Analysis

Compared with typical sweet snacks, Nilla Wafers contain more sugar (36.7 g vs 28.98 g) and higher total fat (20 g vs 17.65 g) per 100 g, but they have lower saturated fat (5 g vs 7.8 g) and less salt (0.96 g vs 1.98 g).

Ingredients

Unbleached enriched flour (wheat flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamine mononitrate vitamin b1, riboflavin vitamin b2, folic acid), sugar, canola oil, palm oil, high fructose corn syrup, whey (from milk), eggs, salt, leavening (baking soda, calcium phosphate), emulsifiers (mono - and diglycerides, soy lecithin), artificial flavor, natural flavor.

84%

35%

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