Why is GREEN PESTO classified as processed (NOVA 3) and which additives does it contain?

The product mixes several ingredients – basil, vegetable oils, cheeses, nuts and spices – and undergoes industrial processing, which places it in NOVA group 3. The only listed additive is the acidity regulator lactic acid (E270); no palm oil or other synthetic additives are present.

How does the high fat and saturated fat content in GREEN PESTO affect heart health and weight management?

With 34.4 g of fat and 4.6 g of saturated fat per 100 g, the pesto is calorie‑dense and can raise LDL‑cholesterol if consumed in large amounts, so it should be used sparingly as part of a balanced diet, especially for those monitoring heart health or body weight.

Is the cheese in GREEN PESTO a problem for people with milk allergies or lactose intolerance?

Yes. The formulation includes cheeses that contain milk proteins, which are flagged as a milk allergen, so anyone with a milk allergy should avoid it. Lactose may also be present in small amounts, making it unsuitable for strict lactose‑intolerant individuals.

M&S FOOD • 190 g

GREEN PESTO

Fat And Sauces

Product Insights

GREEN PESTO is a 190 g glass‑jar condiment from Italy, made primarily of basil (51 %), vegetable oils, and a blend of cheeses, cashew nuts and other flavorings. It belongs to the “Fat and sauces” dietary group, carries a Nutri‑Score of D and is classified in NOVA group 3, reflecting a processed product with a high fat (34.4 g/100 g), moderate saturated fat (4.6 g/100 g) and low sugar (1.3 g/100 g) profile. While it provides a modest amount of protein (2.8 g) and a noticeable basil flavor, it is relatively high in calories (351 kcal), contains added lactic acid (E270) and allergens such as milk and nuts, which may limit suitability for some diets.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

high

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

low

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Added Sugars2 g

Fruits & Vegetables65.3 %

Comparative Analysis

Energetically dense at 351 kcal, GREEN PESTO contains far more fat (34.4 g) and saturated fat (4.6 g) than the typical condiment average, but its sugar (1.3 g) and salt (1.0 g) levels are well below the category norms.

Ingredients

Basil (51%) - Vegetable oil (Sunflower Oil - Rapeseed Oil) Cheeses (4%) (Cheese (Milk) Parmigiano Reggiano PDO (Milk) Pecorino Romano PDO (Milk))- Cashew Nuts - Rice Syrup - Potato Flakes - Sea Salt - Extra Virgin Olive Oil - Pine Kernels - Acidity Regulator. Lactic Acid - Garlic - Ground Spices (Paprika - Turmeric).

84%

35%

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