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

Because the formulation relies on refined sugars, corn syrup, hydrogenated coconut oil, multiple acidity regulators, emulsifiers and artificial colourants, it meets the NOVA 4 criteria for ultra‑processed foods; its additive list includes sucrose, corn syrup, citric acid, trisodium citrate, malic acid, lecithin, pectin, hydrogenated coconut oil, Allura Red AC (E129), Brilliant Blue FCF (E133), and several natural flavourings.

How does the sugar and salt content in ZzzQuil affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

The supplement contains 2 g of sugars per 100 g, which is modest, but its salt level of 17.8 g per 100 g is exceptionally high and can raise blood pressure, so individuals with hypertension should limit intake, while the modest sugar amount still warrants caution for diabetics who need to monitor any added sugars.

Is the soy allergen in ZzzQuil a concern for people with soy allergy?

Yes, the ingredient list declares soy as a food allergen, so anyone with a soy allergy should avoid ZzzQuil to prevent allergic reactions such as hives, swelling, or respiratory symptoms.

Vicks • 72 g

ZzzQuil

Health Beauty

Product Insights

ZzzQuil is a Vicks‑branded dietary supplement marketed as a sleep aid, formulated with melatonin, herbal extracts such as chamomile and valerian, and a sweetened base of sucrose and corn syrup. Classified in the dietary‑supplement family, it carries a NOVA 4 (ultra‑processed) designation, has no Nutri‑Score, and its 100 g profile shows low fat, low sugars, but an unusually high salt level of 17.8 g. The product also contains multiple additives, artificial colours (Allura Red AC, Brilliant Blue FCF), and common allergens including soy and tree‑nut (coconut), which may be problematic for sensitive consumers despite its intended sleep‑supporting benefits.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

low

Sugars

low

Salt

high

Comparative Analysis

Compared with typical over‑the‑counter sleep supplements, ZzzQuil is relatively high in added sugars and especially salt while still delivering a standard melatonin dose, making it less nutritionally minimalist but still effective for sleep support.

Ingredients

Sucrose, corn syrup, water, sugar, pectin (gelling agent), hydrogenated coconut oil, chamomile natural a lemon balm (natural flavour), citric acid (acidity regulator), lecithin (emulsifier), vantila (natural flavour), mixed berry typefa natural flavour), valerian (natural flavour), trisodium citrate (acidity regulator), malic acid (artificial flavour), lavender til flavour), melatonin, artificial colours (Allura Red AC, Brilliant Blue FCF). Contains food allergen: Soy, Tree Nuts (Coconut

84%

35%