Why is Mackerel Fillets (Escabeche Sauce) classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The product is assigned to NOVA group 4 because it combines whole fish fillets with a formulated escabeche sauce that includes refined ingredients, preservatives and texture agents; the listed additives are guar gum (E412) and xanthan gum (E415), both used as thickeners and stabilizers.

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

With 1.3 g of sugar per 100 g, the product provides a low to moderate sugar load that is unlikely to cause major blood glucose spikes when eaten in typical serving sizes, but people managing diabetes should still count it toward their total carbohydrate intake; the salt level of 1 g per 100 g is relatively low compared with many processed foods, making it acceptable for most hypertensive diets if total daily sodium remains within recommended limits.

Is the mackerel in this product sustainably sourced, and what should consumers look for?

The package does not disclose the fish origin, so sustainability cannot be verified directly, but mackerel is generally regarded as a well-managed species; consumers should look for third-party eco-labels such as MSC or information about traceable fisheries to ensure responsible sourcing.

Marque Repère,Pêche Océan • 89 g

Filets de Maquereaux (Sauce Escabèche)

Fish Meat Eggs

Product Insights

Mackerel Fillets (Escabeche Sauce) are canned mackerel fillets prepared in a tangy escabeche sauce, classified in the 'Fish, Meat & Eggs' PNNS group. It carries a Nutri-Score of C and is placed in NOVA group 4, offering a good source of protein (approximately 13 g per 100 g) and omega-3 fatty acids while containing moderate amounts of saturated fat (3.5 g) and sugar (1.3 g). However, the product includes additives such as guar gum (E412) and xanthan gum (E415), traces of celery, egg, milk and mustard, and its processing level makes it ultra-processed, which may be a concern for some consumers.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

low

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal211 kcal

Fat17 g

Saturated Fat3.5 g

Carbohydrates1.3 g

Sugars1.3 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average values for its food category, this mackerel product contains slightly more sugar (1.3 g vs 0.98 g), about three times the average saturated fat (3.5 g vs 1.32 g), but far less salt (1 g vs 5.32 g).

Ingredients

Filets de maquereaux 56 %; eau; vinaigre d'alcool 11 %; huile de tournesol 6,6 %; oignons en poudre 1,7 %; concentré de tomates 1,6 %; sel; purée d'ail ; épaississants: gomme guar, gomme xanthane; échalotes en poudre; extrait d'oignon ; persil; poivre blanc; extraits d'épices. Traces de céleri, œufs, lait et moutarde.

84%

35%

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