Why is Jambon Cuit -25% salt classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The ham undergoes multiple processing steps such as brining, cooking, addition of dextrose, flavorings and preservatives, which places it in the ultra-processed NOVA 4 category; its label lists sodium nitrite (E250), sodium erythorbate (E316), dextrose, sea salt, mineral salts, natural flavorings and a blend of spices.

How does the sugar and salt content in this ham affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

With only 0.5 g of naturally occurring sugar but an estimated 6.2 g of added dextrose per 100 g, the product adds modest extra sugar, while its 1.4 g of salt (approximately 560 mg sodium) is lower than typical ham but still contributes to daily sodium limits, so it can fit a controlled diet if portion sizes are limited.

Is the sodium nitrite preservative in this ham a health concern?

Sodium nitrite (E250) is used to preserve color and inhibit bacterial growth; it is permitted at regulated levels, but excessive intake has been linked to the formation of nitrosamines, so occasional consumption is considered safe for most people, while those with specific health concerns should limit intake.

Carrefour • 120 g

Jambon Cuit -25% de sel** Sans traitement antibiotique dès la fin du sevrage

Fish Meat Eggs

Product Insights

Jambon Cuit -25% salt, sold by Carrefour, is a 120 g portion of cooked French pork ham that is marketed as a superior-quality, reduced-salt product. It delivers 21 g of protein per 100 g, with very low fat (2.7 g), sugar (0.5 g) and a moderate salt level of 1.4 g, earning a Nutri-Score of A while belonging to the processed-meat PNNS group. Nevertheless, it is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4) and contains additives such as sodium nitrite (E250), sodium erythorbate (E316), dextrose and natural flavorings, which may be a concern for some consumers.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

low

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

low

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal110 kcal

Fat2.7 g

Saturated Fat0.9 g

Carbohydrates0.5 g

Sugars0.5 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average cooked ham, this product contains about one-third the sugar, one-sixth the fat, and less than half the salt while providing slightly more protein.

Ingredients

Jambon de porc issu d'animaux élevés sans traitement antibiotique dés la fin de sevrage et nourris sans OGM (< 0,9%), sel de mer et minéraux de mer (potassium, magnésium, calcium), bouillons (protéines de porc, sel, arôme naturel, oignon, ail, poivre, noix de muscade, clou de girofle, thym, laurier), dextrose, sel, arômes naturels, antioxydant : érythorbate de sodium, conservateur : nitrite de sodium Viande de porc origine France.

84%

35%

Unlock What Your Food Doesn't Tell You

Scan this and millions of other food products to discover hidden positive & negative points, scores percentage, additives, allergens, and deeper product insights with the free NutrScan app.