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

The product is made from reconstituted skimmed milk, various cheese blends, butter and several functional ingredients that are industrially processed, placing it in NOVA group 4. It contains emulsifying salt (E452), carrageenan thickener (E407), citric acid as acidity regulator (E330), sorbic acid preservative (E202) and carotenoid colorants (E160), all of which are typical of ultra‑processed foods.

How does the sugar and salt content in Croque Monsieur affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

With 6 g of sugars per 100 g, the cheese adds a moderate carbohydrate load that can raise blood glucose, requiring careful portion control for diabetics. The 2.5 g of salt per 100 g contributes significantly to daily sodium intake and may aggravate high‑blood‑pressure conditions, so individuals with hypertension should limit consumption.

Is the milk in this product a problem for people with milk allergy?

Yes, milk and milk‑derived ingredients such as skimmed milk, cheese, butter, milk proteins and whey are listed as allergens, so anyone with a confirmed milk allergy should avoid this product entirely.

Marque Repère, Les Croisés • 200 g

Croque Monsieur

Milk And Dairy Products

Product Insights

Croque Monsieur is a 200 g pack of sliced processed cheese that belongs to the Milk and dairy products and Cheese groups. It carries a Nutri‑Score of E and is classified in NOVA group 4, reflecting its ultra‑processed nature, with high saturated fat (12 g), high salt (2.5 g), moderate sugars (6 g) and a solid protein content (13 g) per 100 g. While it delivers a good amount of protein, the elevated saturated fat and salt levels mean it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

high

Sugars

moderate

Salt

high

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal235 kcal

Fat17 g

Saturated Fat12 g

Carbohydrates7.5 g

Sugars6 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average processed cheese, its sugar (6 g) is about three times higher than the category average of 1.8 g, its fat (17 g) is slightly lower than the average 25 g, and its salt (2.5 g) falls below the average 3.3 g per 100 g.

Ingredients

Lait écrémé reconstitué, fromages 33 % (lait, sel, ferments) dont emmental 5 %, beurre, protéines de lait, lactosérum, sel de fonte : E452, épaississant : carraghénanes, sel, correcteur d'acidité : acide citrique, conservateur : E202, colorant : caroténoïdes (dont lait). Fabriqué à partir de lait d'origine UE et hors UE. Les pourcentages sont exprimés sur le produit fini.

84%

35%

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