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

The biscuit is made from refined wheat flour, added rapeseed oil, sugar, butter and flavourings, and includes minor additives such as calcium carbonate, niacin, iron and thiamin as fortifiers; these processed ingredients and the use of flavourings place it in the NOVA 4 ultra‑processed category.

How does the sugar and fat content in Shortbread fingers affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

With 18 g of sugar per 100 g, the biscuits can cause rapid blood‑glucose spikes, making them unsuitable for strict diabetic control, while 24 g of fat and 0.67 g of salt contribute to elevated calorie intake and modest sodium load, which may be limiting for hypertension management when consumed regularly.

Are Shortbread fingers suitable for vegan, gluten‑free, or low‑carb diets?

No; they contain wheat flour (gluten) and butter (milk), so they are not gluten‑free or vegan, and with 61 g of carbohydrates per 100 g they are far from low‑carb.

Paterson's, Patterson's

Shortbread fingers

Sugary Snacks

Product Insights

Shortbread fingers are a shortbread biscuit marketed by Patterson's and belong to the sugary snacks and biscuits and cakes dietary families. They deliver 502 kcal per 100 g, with high fat (24 g), high sugars (18 g), moderate salt (0.67 g), a Nutri‑Score of D and a NOVA group 4 indicating ultra‑processed status. While they provide a buttery flavor, some protein and fiber, the elevated fat and sugar levels and the presence of milk as an allergen mean they are best enjoyed in moderation.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

high

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

high

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g/ml

Energy Kcal502 kcal

Fat24 g

Saturated Fat2.7 g

Carbohydrates61 g

Sugars18 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average shortbread snack, these fingers contain less sugar and salt but considerably more fat and calories per 100 g.

Ingredients

Wheat flour (Wheat flour, Calcium carbonate, Niacin, Iron, Thiamin), Rapeseed oil, Sugar, Butter (Milk), Salt, Flavourings.

84%

35%

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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Shortbread fingers.

Hatherwood, Lidl

210 g