Why is Hela Curry Ketchup classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The product is labeled NOVA 4 because it contains added sugars, refined fruit sugars, modified starch, caramelised sugar syrup and a flavor enhancer (MSG). The listed additives are E621 (monosodium glutamate), E330 (citric acid), E412 (guar gum) and caramel sugar syrup, all of which are manufactured ingredients that increase its processing level.

How does the high sugar and salt content in this curry ketchup affect people with diabetes or hypertension?

With 20.9 g of sugar per 100 g, the ketchup can cause a rapid rise in blood glucose, making it unsuitable for strict diabetic diets. The 2.2 g of salt per 100 g contributes to sodium intake and may elevate blood pressure, so hypertensive individuals should limit consumption.

Is the monosodium glutamate (E621) used in this product a health concern for sensitive consumers?

Monosodium glutamate is approved as safe for the general population, but a small number of people report mild reactions such as headaches or flushing. For most consumers it does not pose a health risk, though those with known MSG sensitivity should avoid it.

Hela • 800ml

Gewürz Ketchup Curry Delikat 30% weniger Zucker

Fat And Sauces

Product Insights

The Hela Curry Ketchup by Famila is a plant‑based, gluten‑free condiment made in Germany, classified in the PNNS groups “Fat and sauces” and “Dressings and sauces”. It carries a Nutri‑Score of D and belongs to NOVA group 4, reflecting its ultra‑processed nature, with very low fat (0.3 g per 100 g) and no saturated fat but a high sugar level of 20.9 g and 2.2 g of salt per 100 g. The formula includes vegan ingredients and a mustard flour allergen, and additives such as E621 (monosodium glutamate), E330 (citric acid), E412 (guar gum) and caramel sugar syrup, which enhance flavor and texture but add to its processed profile.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

low

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

high

Salt

high

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 ml

Energy Kcal104 kcal

Fat0.3 g

Carbohydrates23.8 g

Sugars20.9 g

Proteins0.8 g

Comparative Analysis

The sauce’s sugar content (20.9 g/100 g) is nearly double the average for similar condiments (10.95 g), while its fat (0.3 g) is dramatically lower than the typical 12.0 g, and its salt level (2.2 g) falls below the average 5.0 g.

Ingredients

Tomatenzubereitung (Trinkwasser, Tomatenmark, Branntweinessig, Zucker, Fruktose, modifizierte Stärke, Curry (Paprika, Senfmehl, Koriander, Kurkuma, Gewürze), Kochsalz, Verdickungsmittel (Guarkernmehl), Karamellzuckersirup, Geschmacksverstärker (Mononatriumglutamat), Säuerungsmittel (Citronensäure)

84%

35%

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