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

The product mixes many industrial ingredients such as glucose‑fructose syrup, refined sugar, modified maize starch, emulsifiers and preservatives, which places it in the ultra‑processed NOVA 4 group; its label lists additives E160a (beta‑carotene colour), E160ai (beta‑carotene), E300 (ascorbic acid), E330 (citric acid), E331 (sodium citrate) and E440 (pectin).

How does the high sugar content in Lemon Curd affect people with diabetes or hypertension?

With 56.6 g of sugar per 100 g, the spread can cause rapid blood‑glucose spikes, making it unsuitable for diabetic management, and although its salt is low, the overall high carbohydrate load can contribute to weight gain, indirectly impacting blood‑pressure control.

Is the palm oil present in this Lemon Curd a concern for environmental sustainability?

Yes; the margarine component contains palm oil and palm stearin, which are linked to deforestation and loss of biodiversity, so consumers seeking environmentally friendly products may wish to avoid it.

Tesco • 411 g

Lemon Curd

Sugary Snacks

Product Insights

Lemon Curd is a 411 g Tesco spread that falls within the sugary snacks and sweets families. It delivers very high sugar (56.6 g per 100 g), modest fat (4.8 g) and low salt (0.23 g), resulting in a Nutri‑Score of E and a NOVA 4 classification for ultra‑processed foods. The formulation includes several additives (E160a, E160ai, E300, E330, E331, E440) and palm‑derived fats, which raise both health and sustainability concerns.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

high

Salt

low

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Added Sugars71.3 g

Fruits & Vegetables2.4 %

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average sweet‑spread, this lemon curd contains slightly more sugar (56.6 g vs 53.4 g per 100 g) but markedly less fat, saturated fat and calories, and it provides far less fiber and protein than typical products in its category.

Ingredients

Glucose-Fructose Syrup, Sugar, Water Lemon Juice from Concentrate (8%), Margarine Modified Maize Starch, Free Range Dried Egg Citric Acid, Gelling Agent (Pectin), Acidity Regulator (Sodium Citrate), Lemon Oil, Colour (Beta-Carotene), Antioxidant (Ascorbic Acid). Margarine contains: Palm Oil, Rapeseed Oil, Palm Stearin, Water.

84%

35%

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