Why is ULTIMATE PLANT-BASED CHICK'N NUGGETS classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The nuggets are made from refined wheat flour, isolated soy protein, pea protein concentrate and other processed ingredients, plus functional additives such as methylcellulose (a thickener), xanthan gum, sodium acid pyrophosphate, sodium bicarbonate, citric acid, titanium dioxide for color, and natural flavorings, which together place the product in the NOVA 4 ultra‑processed group.

How does the salt content in this product affect a hypertensive diet?

With 1.5 g of salt per 100 g, the nuggets contribute a notable amount of sodium; regular consumption can raise daily sodium intake and may worsen blood pressure control for people with hypertension, so they should be eaten in moderation or balanced with low‑salt foods.

Is the soy protein isolate in this product a concern for people with soy allergy?

Yes, soy protein isolate is listed as an ingredient and is highlighted as an allergen, so individuals with soy allergy should avoid these nuggets and look for soy‑free alternatives.

gardein • 417 g

ULTIMATE PLANT-BASED CHICK'N NUGGETS

Meat Alternatives

Product Insights

ULTIMATE PLANT-BASED CHICK'N NUGGETS by Gardein are vegan, vegetarian and non‑GMO meat‑alternative nuggets classified as a cereal‑based protein product, and they fall into the ultra‑processed NOVA 4 category. Nutritionally, the nuggets deliver 14.9 g of protein per 100 g, moderate fat at 8.5 g, low sugar at 1.1 g, but a relatively high salt level of 1.5 g and low fiber of just over 1 g. The formulation includes gluten, soy and several additives such as methylcellulose, xanthan gum and titanium dioxide, which may be problematic for those avoiding allergens or synthetic ingredients.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Sugars

low

Salt

high

Nutritional Values

Values per serving

Energy Kcal190 kcal

Fat8 g

Carbohydrates16 g

Sugars1 g

Added Sugars0 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with average meat‑alternative nuggets, this product has lower sugar (1.1 g vs 1.94 g), slightly lower fat (8.5 g vs 9.5 g), lower salt (1.5 g vs 2.0 g), comparable protein (14.9 g vs 14.6 g) but markedly less fiber (1.1 g vs 3.9 g).

Ingredients

water, enriched wheat flour (wheat flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid), vital wheat gluten, canola oil, soy protein isolate, pea protein concentrate, tapioca starch, 2% or less of: degerminated yellow corn flour, textured wheat protein (wheat gluten, wheat starch), methylcellulose, salt, yeast extract, natural flavors, garlic powder, spices, onion powder, dried onion, fructose, leavening (sodium acid pyrophosphate, sodium bicarbonate), paprika extractives (color), pea protein, citric acid, titanium dioxide (color), xanthan gum, lactic acid, sunflower oil contains: wheat, soy,

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