Why is Meat‑Free Meatballs classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and which additives does it contain?

NOVA 4 includes foods that contain industrial ingredients and undergo multiple processing steps; this product uses rehydrated textured soy protein, refined oils and several isolated components. The only listed additive is methyl cellulose (E461) used as a stabiliser, alongside flavourings and minor processing aids such as maltodextrin.

How does the salt content of 0.89 g per 100 g affect a hypertension‑friendly diet?

0.89 g of salt equals about 350 mg of sodium per 100 g, which is roughly 15 % of the daily recommended limit of 2 g sodium for adults. Consuming the product in large portions could push sodium intake close to or above guideline levels, so people with high blood pressure should monitor portion size.

Can people following a vegan and gluten‑free diet safely eat these meatballs?

The product is fully vegan, containing no animal‑derived ingredients, but it is not gluten‑free because it includes malted barley extract, a source of gluten. It also contains soy, a common allergen, so only those without gluten or soy sensitivities can safely include it in their diet.

PLANT MENU • 400g

Meat-Free Meatballs

Meat Alternatives

Product Insights

Aldi’s Meat‑Free Meatballs are a plant‑based protein food, positioned in the protein foods group for vegans and vegetarians. They deliver a high 15.7 g of protein and 6.6 g of fiber per 100 g while keeping sugars at 1.3 g and saturated fat at 0.8 g, earning a Nutri‑Score of A. Nevertheless, they are classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4), contain the stabiliser methyl cellulose (E461) and have a moderate salt level of 0.89 g per 100 g, which may be a concern for sodium‑sensitive diets.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

low

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal166 kcal

Fat8.2 g

Saturated Fat0.8 g

Carbohydrates3.6 g

Sugars1.3 g

Comparative Analysis

With 15.7 g of protein and 6.6 g of fiber per 100 g, these meat‑free meatballs rank among the most protein‑dense plant‑based meat analogues, yet their 0.89 g of salt and 8.2 g of fat are higher than many lean meat alternatives.

Ingredients

REHYDRATED TEXTURED SOYA PROTEIN (63%), Water, ONION PURÉE (9%), Rapeseed Oil, Soya Protein Concentrate, Chickpea Flour, Yeast Extract, Stabiliser: Methyl Cellulose; Tomato Purée, Parsley, Garlic Purée, Onion Powder, Maltodextrin, Dextrose, Garlic Powder, Malted Barley Extract, Salt, Black Pepper, White Pepper, Tomato Powder, Flavouring.

84%

35%

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