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

The product is marked as NOVA 4 because its formulation includes refined sunflower oil, dried glucose syrup, and multiple processing steps that add preservatives and acidity regulators; the listed additives are lysozyme (E1105), lactic acid (E270), ascorbic acid (E300) and citric acid (E330).

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

The high fat level (38 g per 100 g) raises the overall calorie load and the saturated fat (5 g) can influence heart‑health markers, while the moderate salt amount (1.06 g) is lower than many processed sauces but still contributes to sodium intake; diabetics may appreciate the low sugar (2.7 g) but should limit portion size to manage energy intake, and individuals with hypertension should monitor total daily salt.

Is the presence of cashew nuts and lysozyme in this pesto a concern for people with nut or egg allergies?

Yes, the product lists cashew nuts (5 % of the formulation) and lysozyme, an enzyme derived from egg white, both of which are recognized allergens and can trigger reactions in sensitive individuals.

Cucina • 190 g

Pesto

Fat And Sauces

Product Insights

This 190 g jar of Cucina Pesto, made in Italy and sold at Aldi, belongs to the “Fat and sauces” PNNS group of dressings and sauces. It carries a Nutri‑Score of D and is classified in the ultra‑processed NOVA 4 category, reflecting its inclusion of refined sunflower oil, dried glucose syrup and several food additives. Nutritionally it is very high in fat (38 g per 100 g) and saturated fat (5 g), moderate in salt (1.06 g) and low in sugars (2.7 g), while providing 4.4 g of protein and 1.8 g of fiber, and it contains allergens such as milk, egg (lysozyme) and nuts.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

high

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

low

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal398 kcal

Fat38.1 g

Saturated Fat5 g

Carbohydrates8.5 g

Sugars2.7 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average pesto in its category, this product contains dramatically more fat (38.1 g vs 12 g) and calories (398 kcal vs 183 kcal), while its sugar (2.7 g) and salt (1.06 g) are well below typical levels.

Ingredients

BASIL (46%), Sunflower Oil, Dried Glucose Syrup, GRANA PADANO CHEESE (5%) (Grana Padano Cheese (Milk), Preservative: Lysozyme (Egg, CASHEW NUTS (5%), Potato Flakes, Salt, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Garlic Puree (Garlic, Water, Acidity Regulators: Lactic Acid, Citric Acid), PECORINO ROMANO CHEESE (MILK) (0.5%), Pine Nuts, Acidity Regulator. Lactic Acid Antioxidant: Ascorbic Acid

84%

35%

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