Why is Pain d'épices au miel classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The product is labelled NOVA 4 because it combines several industrially derived ingredients such as glucose‑fructose syrup, caramelized sugar syrup, refined colza oil, and a blend of leavening agents (sodium carbonates – E500 and diphosphates – E450). It also includes a preservative (sorbic acid – E200) and a generic flavouring, all of which are typical of ultra‑processed foods.

How does the high sugar content in this honey gingerbread affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

With 36 g of sugar per 100 g, the product can cause rapid blood‑glucose spikes, making it unsuitable for tight diabetic control. Although its salt level (0.51 g) is modest, the overall high sugar load outweighs any benefit for hypertension management, and it should be consumed only occasionally within a balanced diet.

Is the honey in this product a concern for vegans or for people with honey allergies?

Yes. Honey is an animal‑derived ingredient, so the product is not vegan. It also appears as a declared ingredient (8 % of the formula), which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to honey.

Carrefour • 350 g e

Pain d'épices au miel

Sugary Snacks

Product Insights

Pain d'épices au miel is a honey‑flavored gingerbread block sold in 350 g plastic bags and belongs to the sugary snacks and biscuits‑and‑cakes families (PNNS groups “Sugary snacks” and “Biscuits and cakes”). It carries a Nutri‑Score of D and is classified as NOVA 4 ultra‑processed, containing added glucose‑fructose syrup, caramelized sugar syrup, leavening agents (E500, E450), a preservative (E200) and flavourings, as well as honey which makes it non‑vegan and a source of gluten from rye and wheat flours. Nutritionally, the product provides a high sugar level of 36 g per 100 g (well above the category average of 28.98 g), low fat, moderate salt (0.51 g), and may trigger reactions in people with gluten, nut or milk sensitivities.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

low

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

high

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal295 kcal

Fat0.9 g

Saturated Fat0.1 g

Carbohydrates67 g

Sugars36 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average sugary snack (28.98 g sugar per 100 g), this honey gingerbread block provides about 36 g of sugar, exceeding the norm, while its salt (0.51 g) is well below the average 1.98 g.

Ingredients

Farine de _seigle_ 38,5%, sirop de glucose-fructose, eau, miel 8%, farine de _blé_ malté, sirop de sucre caramélisé, poudres à lever : carbonates de sodium et diphosphates, sucre, huile de colza, arôme, conservateur : acide sorbique; épices mélangées (cannelle, clou de girofle, noix de muscade, gingembre, coriandre, piment de la Jamaïque, macis, cardamome), sel. Peut contenir des traces de fruits à coque et lait.

84%

35%

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