Why is Beef stock cubes classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The product is labelled NOVA 4 because it combines refined ingredients such as beef extract, palm fat, maltodextrin and flavorings that are created through multiple industrial steps; while no listed food additives appear, the added flavorings and the use of palm fat function as processing aids typical of ultra‑processed foods.

How does the salt content in Beef stock cubes affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

At 0.95 g of salt per 100 g, the cubes contribute a noticeable sodium load that can raise blood pressure and may counteract sodium‑restriction recommendations for hypertension; although the carbohydrate and sugar levels are low, people managing diabetes should still account for the salt when seasoning meals.

Is the presence of mustard in Beef stock cubes a concern for people with mustard allergy?

Yes. Mustard is listed as a trace allergen, so individuals with a mustard allergy could experience allergic reactions and should avoid the product or check for cross‑contamination warnings.

Aldi

Beef stock cubes

Dried Products

Product Insights

Beef stock cubes are a processed foods product marketed by Aldi and sold in the United Kingdom. They provide very low energy (7 kcal per 100 g) and minimal fat and sugars, but contain 0.95 g of salt per 100 g and include beef extract, palm fat, maltodextrin and flavorings, resulting in an ultra‑processed classification (NOVA 4) and no Nutri‑Score label. The cubes are non‑vegan, list mustard as a possible allergen, and may not suit vegan or mustard‑allergic consumers despite their low calorie profile.

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g/ml

Energy Kcal7 kcal

Fat0.5 g

Saturated Fat0.3 g

Carbohydrates0.5 g

Sugars0.5 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average values for bouillon cubes (≈12 g sugar, 6 g fat and 45 g salt per 100 g), this product contains only 0.5 g sugar, 0.5 g fat and 0.95 g salt, making it markedly lower in those macronutrients.

Ingredients

Salt, Palm Fat Maize Starch, Maltodextrin, BEEF EXTRACT (45%), BEEF FAT (46) Sugant Extract, Caramelised Sugar Synup Favouring Camot Powder, Roasted Onion Powder Parsip Powder, Dried Parsley, Garlic Powder Dried Lovage ALLE ADVICE: May contain celery egg mill, gluten sources, mustard and soya No artificial colours, flavourings or preservatives NUTRITION This pack contains 12 skute TYPICAL VALUES (made up as directed) Per 100ml Per stock cube (450ml) 1293kal Energy Fat 0.5g 23g

84%

35%

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