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

The sauce combines refined sunflower oil, multiple processed cheeses, whey‑permeate powder, added sugars, starches, and acid regulators, which are all characteristic of ultra‑processed foods; its label lists two additives: lactic acid (E270) as a acidity regulator and ascorbic acid (E300) as an antioxidant.

How does the high fat and saturated‑fat content in this pesto affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

The very high total fat and saturated‑fat increase the product’s calorie density and may raise LDL cholesterol, which can be a concern for heart health; however, the low sugar level means it has minimal direct impact on blood‑glucose spikes, and the modest salt amount (0.41 g/100 g) is below typical hypertension limits, so the main dietary consideration is overall calorie and saturated‑fat intake.

Is Pesto alla Genovese suitable for vegan, keto, halal, or gluten‑free diets?

It is gluten‑free, but it contains dairy ingredients (milk, cheese, whey) and animal‑derived rennet, so it is not vegan nor reliably halal; its very low carbohydrate content makes it compatible with a keto regimen, while the high fat and protein levels align with keto macronutrient goals.

BLM,Cucina • 190 g

Pesto alla Genovese

Fat And Sauces

Product Insights

Pesto alla Genovese is a ready‑to‑use green pesto sauce marketed by BLM Cucina and sold in 190 g glass jars at Aldi stores in Germany. It belongs to the “Fat and sauces” and “Dressings and sauces” groups, carries a Nutri‑Score of D and is classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4), with very high fat (≈50 g/100 g), saturated fat (7.3 g), moderate salt (0.41 g) and low sugar (1.8 g), while providing 4.6 g protein and 2.4 g fiber per 100 g. The product is gluten‑free but contains milk, nuts and traces of peanuts, and includes the additives lactic acid (E270) and ascorbic acid (E300).

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

high

Saturated Fat

high

Sugars

low

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal495 kcal

Fat50.1 g

Saturated Fat7.3 g

Carbohydrates5.2 g

Sugars1.8 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average pesto category, this pesto contains roughly four times more fat and saturated fat, far less sugar and salt, and about double the protein and fiber, resulting in a much higher energy density.

Ingredients

Sonnenblumenöl, Basilikum 34 %, Parmigiano Reggiano g.U. Käse 5 % (Milch, Salz, Lab), Cashewkerne 5 %, Molkenpermeatpulver, Pecorino Romano g.U. Käse (Schafsmilch, Salz, Lab) 2 %, Natives Olivenöl Extra, Buttermilch, Salz, Zucker, Milcheiweiß, Stärke, Säureregulator: Milchsäure; Antioxidationsmittel: Ascorbinsäure; Knoblauch. Kann Spuren von Erdnüssen und anderen Schalenfrüchten enthalten.

84%

35%

Unlock What Your Food Doesn't Tell You

Scan this and millions of other food products to discover hidden positive & negative points, scores percentage, additives, allergens, and deeper product insights with the free NutrScan app.