Why is HERTA Croque-Monsieur Maxi classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The sandwich combines multiple industrially prepared components, refined wheat flour, processed pork ham, cheese blends and emulsified vegetable oils, and includes additives that help preserve texture, stability and shelf life. Its label lists E451 (tricalcium phosphate), E331 (sodium phosphates), E282 (calcium propionate), E407 (pectin), E471 (mono‑ and diglycerides) and traces of palm oil, all typical of NOVA 4 ultra‑processed foods.

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

At 1.6 g of salt per 100 g, the sandwich contributes roughly 25 % of the WHO’s recommended maximum daily intake of 5 g of salt. While lower than the average sandwich, regular consumption can still raise blood pressure in salt‑sensitive individuals, so moderation or pairing with low‑salt sides is advisable for people with hypertension.

Is this sandwich suitable for gluten‑free, vegan or halal diets?

No. The product contains wheat flour and gluten, dairy‑derived cheese and butter, and pork ham, making it unsuitable for gluten‑free, vegan or halal dietary restrictions.

HERTA, Tendre Croc' • 310 g

HERTA Croque-Monsieur Maxi jambon fromage CSNx2 310G

Composite Foods

Product Insights

HERTA Croque-Monsieur Maxi is a ready‑to‑heat French sandwich made with wheat flour, cooked pork ham, melted cheese and vegetable oils, falling into the Composite foods – Sandwiches group. Per 100 g it provides 275 kcal, 13 g fat (5.7 g saturated), 12 g protein and 1.6 g salt, which places it below average levels of fat, saturated fat, sugar and salt for similar sandwiches, though its fiber (1.1 g) and protein are also lower than the category mean. The product is classified as NOVA 4 ultra‑processed and contains several additives such as E451 (tricalcium phosphate), E331 (sodium phosphates), E282 (calcium propionate) and traces of palm oil, which may be concerns for health‑focused consumers.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

high

Sugars

low

Salt

high

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal275 kcal

Fat13 g

Saturated Fat5.7 g

Carbohydrates27 g

Sugars2.7 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average sandwich (275 kcal, 19 g fat, 6.5 g saturated fat, 3.2 g salt, 4.5 g sugars, 2.1 g fiber, 29 g carbs, 18 g protein), this Croque‑Monsieur delivers fewer calories, less fat, saturated fat, salt and sugar, but also provides less protein and fiber than typical equivalents.

Ingredients

Farine de BLÉ, Jambon de porc, Eau, FROMAGES, Huiles végétales (palme, colza), Amidons modifiés, PROTÉINES de LAIT, Sel, BEURRE, GLUTEN de BLÉ, Levure, Sucre, Dextrose, Stabilisant : E451, Sel de fonte : E331, Conservateur : E282, Arômes naturels (présence naturelle de polyphénols), Gélifiant : E407, Antioxydant : acide ascorbique, Emulsifiant : E471, Arôme, Jus de citron concentré. Peut contenir : OEUFS.

84%

35%

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