Why is Bayonne ham classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4) and which additives does it contain?

The curing, smoking and addition of ingredients such as salt, sugar, potassium nitrate, dextrose and natural flavourings push the product into the ultra-processed NOVA-4 category, as these steps go beyond simple mechanical preparation.

How does the high salt content in Bayonne ham affect a hypertensive diet?

With 5.2 g of salt per 100 g, the ham contributes far more than the recommended daily sodium limit, which can raise blood pressure and increase cardiovascular risk for people with hypertension, so it should be consumed sparingly or avoided.

Is the potassium nitrate used as a preservative in this ham a health concern?

Potassium nitrate (E252) is a traditional curing agent that prevents bacterial growth and preserves colour; regulatory agencies consider it safe at permitted levels, but excessive intake may lead to nitrite formation, prompting some consumers to limit products that contain it.

Saint alby • 100 g

Jambon de Bayonne

Fish Meat Eggs

Product Insights

Bayonne ham is a 100 g portion of French-origin cured pork sold at Lidl, belonging to the processed-meat family. It provides 30 g of protein, 15 g of fat (4.9 g saturated), 255 kcal, low sugars (0.5 g) but high salt (5.2 g), carries a Nutri-Score of E and is classified as NOVA 4 due to added salt, sugar, potassium nitrate, dextrose and natural flavours. While the high protein makes it a solid meat source, the elevated sodium and ultra-processed status may be unsuitable for low-salt or hypertension-focused diets.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

low

Salt

high

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal255 kcal

Fat15 g

Saturated Fat4.9 g

Carbohydrates0.5 g

Sugars0.5 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with average cured meats, this Bayonne ham contains less fat, saturated fat and sugar, but considerably more salt and protein, while delivering a similar calorie level.

Ingredients

Jambon de porc frais (Origine : France), sel, sucre, conservateur : nitrate de potassium; dextrose, arômes naturels.

84%

35%

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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Jambon de Bayonne.

saint azay

100g