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

The product mixes refined wheat flour, processed pork ham, melted raclette cheese, butter and several industrial ingredients such as emulsifiers, preservatives and flavor enhancers, which together qualify it as ultra‑processed. Its additive list includes sodium triphosphate (E331), calcium propionate (E282), ascorbic acid (E300), sodium triphosphate again as a stabiliser (E451) and mono‑ and diglycerides (E471).

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

With 1.58 g of salt per 100 g, the sandwich contributes significantly to daily sodium intake; consuming several servings could exceed recommended limits for people with high blood pressure, potentially increasing the risk of cardiovascular complications.

Is the presence of palm oil in this product a concern for sustainability and environmental impact?

The formulation uses a small amount of palm oil (estimated around 0.5 % of the product). Although the quantity is low, palm oil production is linked to deforestation and habitat loss, so its inclusion raises sustainability concerns despite the minimal proportion.

HERTA, Tendre Croc' • 310 g

HERTA Croque-Monsieur Maxi montagnard CSN x2 310G

Composite Foods

Product Insights

HERTA Croque-Monsieur Maxi montagnard is a ready‑to‑heat sandwich that falls within the sandwiches group of composite foods. Nutritionally it delivers 13 g of protein and 1.1 g of fiber per 100 g, but its 1.58 g of salt and 6.3 g of saturated fat result in a Nutri‑Score of D and a NOVA 4 rating, indicating an ultra‑processed product. The formulation contains wheat, pork ham, raclette cheese, butter and several additives such as E331, E282 and E300, making it unsuitable for gluten‑free or dairy‑free diets.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

high

Sugars

low

Salt

high

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal267 kcal

Fat13 g

Saturated Fat6.3 g

Carbohydrates24 g

Sugars2.2 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average sandwich, this croque‑monsieur contains less sugar, fat, saturated fat, salt and calories, but also provides lower protein and fiber amounts.

Ingredients

Farine de BLÉ, Eau, Jambon de porc, FROMAGE A RACLETTE 13%, FROMAGES, Huiles végétales (palme, colza), BEURRE, Sel, PROTÉINES de LAIT, Levure, Sucre, Amidons modifiés, Sel de fonte : E331, GLUTEN de BLÉ, Dextrose, Conservateur : E282 ; Stabilisant : E451, Arômes naturels (présence naturelle de polyphénols), Antioxydant : acide ascorbique, Arôme, Emulsifiant : E471, Jus de citron concentré. Peut contenir : OEUFS.

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