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

The product is labeled NOVA 4 because it includes refined vegetable oils, a blend of additives such as sorbic acid (E200) used as a preservative, citric acid (E330) as an acidity regulator, and ferrous gluconate (E579) for iron fortification, together with natural flavorings. These ingredients are typical of highly processed foods.

How does the salt content of this falafel affect a hypertensive diet?

With 1.23 g of salt per 100 g, the falafel contributes roughly 5 % of the recommended maximum daily salt intake of 5 g. While it is not excessively salty, individuals monitoring blood pressure should consider this amount within their total daily salt budget.

Is this product suitable for a gluten‑free diet despite being vegan?

No. The formulation contains wheat flour and wheat fiber, which provide gluten, making the product unsuitable for gluten‑free diets. It also lists possible traces of soy, egg and milk.

Vemondo • 200 g

Falafel

Plant Based Foods And Beverages

Product Insights

The product is a refrigerated plant‑based falafel made primarily from chickpeas, zucchini and vegetable oils, marketed under the Vemondo brand and sold at Lidl in Belgium and France. It belongs to the vegetable‑and‑pulse (legume) PNNS group, carries a Nutri‑Score of A, but is classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and contains three additives (E200, E330, E579) plus trace allergens of soy, egg and milk. Nutritionally, it offers 8.2 g protein and 7.6 g fiber per 100 g while keeping sugars low (1.9 g) but its fat (8.8 g) and salt (1.23 g) are higher than average for similar plant‑based snacks.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

low

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal216 kcal

Fat8.8 g

Saturated Fat0.8 g

Carbohydrates22 g

Sugars1.9 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average plant‑based snack, this falafel contains far less fat, saturated fat, and sugar, while providing more protein and fiber, though its salt is modestly higher.

Ingredients

68% pois chiche, courgette, huiles végétales en proportion variable (tournesol, colza), farine de _blé_, épinard, épices (cumin, graine de coriandre, poivre blanc), oignon, purée d'ail, persil, sel, vinaigre d'alcool, fibre de _blé_, acidifiant: acide citrique; eau, conservateur: acide sorbique; arômes naturels, gluconate ferreux, vitamine B12. Traces éventuelles de soja, d'œuf et de lait.

84%

35%

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