Why is Pesto alla Genovese classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

It is labeled NOVA 4 because the formulation combines several refined oils, cheese, sweeteners and texture‑enhancing ingredients that are industrially processed, and the label lists two additives: lactic acid (E270) used as an acidity regulator and ascorbic acid (E300) used as an antioxidant.

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

At 2.5 g of sugars per 100 g, the pesto adds only a minimal carbohydrate load, which is acceptable for most diabetic meal plans, but its 2.3 g of salt represents a moderate sodium contribution that should be counted toward the daily limit, especially for individuals managing hypertension.

Based on its ingredients, is this pesto suitable for vegan, keto, or gluten‑free diets?

The presence of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese makes it unsuitable for vegans, but the low carbohydrate (6.5 g) and high fat content fit a keto profile, and because no wheat or other gluten sources are listed, it can be considered gluten‑free for most consumers, though it is not safe for those with nut allergies.

Carrefour BIO, Carrefour • 185 g

Pesto alla Genovese

Fat And Sauces

Product Insights

Pesto alla Genovese is an organic basil pesto that blends sun‑flower oil, extra‑virgin olive oil, cashew nuts, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and pine nuts into a creamy green sauce. With 30 g of fat (including 4.7 g saturated fat), 5.8 g of protein, 2 g of fiber and only 2.5 g of sugars per 100 g, it delivers a high‑fat, moderate‑protein profile and earns a Nutri‑Score of D, while being classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4). The product lists milk, nuts and oats as allergens, contains the additives lactic acid (E270) and ascorbic acid (E300), and, although certified organic, is not suitable for vegan diets because of the cheese component.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

high

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

low

Salt

high

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal321 kcal

Fat30 g

Saturated Fat4.7 g

Carbohydrates6.5 g

Sugars2.5 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with average condiment values, this pesto contains far less sugar (2.5 g vs 10.94 g) but considerably more fat (30 g vs 12.05 g) and saturated fat (4.7 g vs 2.15 g), while its salt level (2.3 g) is lower than the category average of 5.14 g.

Ingredients

Basilic* 49%, huile de tournesol*, _noix de cajou_* 8%, _fromage_ Parmigiano Reggiano AOP* 6,9% , huile d'olive vierge extra*, sel, eau, sucre*, fibres d'_avoine_*, pignons de pin* 1%, correcteur d'acidité : acide lactique; ail déshydraté*, antioxydant: acide ascorbique. *Ingrédient issu de l'agriculture biologique. Peut contenir des traces d'autres fruits à coque, arachides, œufs, céleri, poissons et soja.

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