Why is green lentils in water classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additive does it contain?

Because the lentils are cooked, canned and include a firming agent, the product is deemed ultra-processed; the only additive listed is calcium chloride, used to maintain texture.

How does the low sugar and salt content of this product affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

The negligible sugar and low salt levels make it suitable for diabetes and hypertension management, but portion size and overall dietary balance should still be considered.

Is green lentils in water suitable for strict diets such as vegan, keto, halal, or gluten-free?

The product is vegan, contains no animal-derived ingredients, and is gluten-free; however, its carbohydrate content (~15 g per 100 g) makes it unsuitable for a strict keto regimen, while it aligns with halal requirements as no prohibited ingredients are present.

Sainsbury's • 400g

green lentils in water

Composite Foods

Product Insights

Green lentils in water is a canned, plant-based one-dish meal classified under the PNNS groups 'composite foods' and 'one-dish meals'. It carries a Nutri-Score of B and falls into NOVA group 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, primarily due to the inclusion of a firming agent (calcium chloride) as an additive. Nutritionally, the product is low in fat, sugars and salt, provides 6.1 g of protein and 4.4 g of fibre per 100 g, making it a good source of plant protein and fibre, though the modest protein level and processing keep its Nutri-Score at B rather than higher.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

low

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

low

Salt

low

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal82 kcal

Fat0.6 g

Saturated Fat0.1 g

Monounsaturated Fat0.1 g

Polyunsaturated Fat0.3 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average values for foods in its category (3.57 g sugars, 5.94 g fat, 1.94 g saturated fat and 3.55 g salt per 100 g), this lentil product contains negligible sugars, markedly lower fat, saturated fat and salt, while delivering 6.1 g protein and 4.4 g fibre, exceeding the average fibre content.

Ingredients

Green Lentils, Water, Firming Agent (Calcium Chloride).

84%

35%

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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about green lentils in water.

Sainsburys SO Organic

380 g