Why is Lighter green pesto classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The product mixes several refined ingredients such as isolated oils, cheeses, starches and preservatives, which places it in the NOVA 4 ultra‑processed category. Its additive list includes the enzyme lysozyme (E1105), used as a preservative, and lactic acid (E270) serving as an acidity regulator, as well as a proprietary preservative called lusozyme.

How does the sugar and salt content in this pesto affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

With only 0.6 g of sugars per 100 g, the pesto adds minimal carbohydrate load, making it suitable for low‑sugar or diabetic meal plans. However, its 1.4 g of salt per 100 g is moderate; people managing hypertension should use it sparingly and balance it with lower‑salt foods.

Is the cashew nut ingredient in this pesto a concern for people with nut allergies?

Yes. The formulation lists cashew nuts at about 4 % of the ingredient list, so the product poses a risk for individuals with tree‑nut allergies and should be avoided by anyone sensitive to cashews.

Sainsbury's • 190g

Lighter green pesto

Fat And Sauces

Product Insights

Lighter green pesto from Sainsbury's is a 190 g glass‑packaged condiment positioned as a reduced‑fat green pesto sauce. It belongs to the ‘Fat and sauces’ and ‘Dressings and sauces’ groups, carries a Nutri‑Score of C, is classified as NOVA 4, and per 100 g provides 15.6 g fat, 2.6 g saturated fat, 1.4 g salt, 0.6 g sugars, 3.2 g protein and 1.7 g fibre. While the modest salt and sugar levels are positive, the high fat content, presence of milk, egg (lysozyme) and cashew nuts allergens, and its ultra‑processed status are notable drawbacks.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

low

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal184 kcal

Fat15.6 g

Saturated Fat2.6 g

Carbohydrates6.7 g

Sugars0.6 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average condiment/pesto (≈12 g fat, 5 g salt, 11 g sugars per 100 g), this lighter green pesto delivers more fat (15.6 g) but far less salt (1.4 g) and sugars (0.6 g), while providing a comparable energy level.

Ingredients

ouringredients: italian basil (53%), water, olive oi, medium fat hard cheese (cows' milk, preservative: lysozyme (egg) (4%), cashew nuts (4%), vegetable fibre, pecorino romano cheese (sheep's milk) 2%), rice flour, salt, grana padano cheese (cows' milk, preservative:lusozyme (egg) (p%), parmigiano reggiano cheese (cows' milk) (1%), acidity regulator: lactic acid

84%

35%

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