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

It is labelled ultra‑processed because the sauce is made by mixing refined ingredients such as malt vinegar, spirit vinegar, molasses, sugar, salt and spice extracts in an industrial process; however, the ingredient list shows zero declared additives, and the product is marketed as containing no artificial flavours, colours or preservatives.

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

With about 18.8 g of sugar per 100 g, the sauce can cause a rapid rise in blood glucose, which is a concern for people with diabetes, while the 2.9 g of salt per 100 g contributes to sodium intake and may increase blood pressure, so both groups should use it sparingly.

Is the sauce suitable for vegan, gluten‑free, halal or kosher diets?

The sauce is not vegan because it contains anchovies, a fish ingredient, and it contains gluten, so it is not gluten‑free; it is certified kosher, but it does not meet halal requirements for many consumers due to the fish content and lack of halal certification.

Lea & Perrins • 150 ml

Worcestershire Sauce

Fat And Sauces

Product Insights

Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce is a clear‑glass bottled condiment that belongs to the ‘Fat and sauces’ family of dressings and sauces. It carries a Nutri‑Score of E and is classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4), featuring low fat and saturated fat but high levels of sugar (≈18.8 g per 100 g) and moderate salt (≈2.9 g per 100 g). The formula includes anchovies (fish) and gluten, making it unsuitable for vegans, fish‑allergic, or gluten‑intolerant consumers, while its Kosher certification and absence of artificial colours or flavours are positive attributes.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

low

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

high

Salt

high

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 ml

Energy Kcal96 kcal

Fat0.9 g

Saturated Fat0.4 g

Carbohydrates21 g

Sugars18.8 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average condiment, this Worcestershire sauce contains markedly more sugar (≈18.8 g vs 10.9 g per 100 g) while its salt level (≈2.9 g) is below the typical 5 g, and it contributes virtually no fat.

Ingredients

Malt Vinegar (from Barley), Spirit Vinegar, Molasses, Sugar, Salt, Anchovies (Fish), Tamarind Extract, Onions, Garlic, Spice, Flavourings.

84%

35%

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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Worcestershire Sauce.

Lea & Perrins

568ml