Why is Sun dried tomato pesto classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The product is deemed ultra‑processed because it combines whole ingredients such as sun‑dried tomatoes with refined components like added vegetable oil, salt, sugar, and often stabilisers or preservatives such as citric acid, ascorbic acid, or emulsifiers that extend shelf‑life and improve texture.

How does the sugar and salt content in Sun dried tomato pesto affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

With 5.1 g of sugar per 100 g, the pesto adds a moderate amount of carbohydrate that can raise blood glucose, while 1.1 g of salt contributes to sodium intake; combined with its high fat and calorie density, it is best consumed sparingly by individuals managing diabetes or hypertension.

Is Sun dried tomato pesto suitable for a vegan diet?

Typical commercial pesto recipes include dairy cheese such as Parmesan, which makes the product non‑vegan; unless a specific vegan version is labeled, this Sun dried tomato pesto is not suitable for a vegan diet.

Essential Waitrose

Sun dried tomato pesto

Fat And Sauces

Product Insights

Sun dried tomato pesto is a condiment from the Fat and sauces group sold under the Essential Waitrose brand. It carries a Nutri‑Score of D and is classified as an ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) product, containing 29 g of fat (including 4.1 g saturated fat), 5.1 g sugars, 1.1 g salt and 313 kcal per 100 g. While it provides 4 g of protein, its high fat and calorie density exceed typical pesto averages, and the moderate salt and sugar levels make it less suitable for low‑sodium or low‑sugar diets.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

high

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

moderate

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g/ml

Energy Kcal313 kcal

Fat29 g

Saturated Fat4.1 g

Carbohydrates7.4 g

Sugars5.1 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average pesto, this Sun dried tomato pesto contains significantly more fat (29 g vs 12 g), higher saturated fat (4.1 g vs 2.1 g), lower sugar (5.1 g vs 10.9 g), less salt (1.1 g vs 5.0 g), and over twice the energy (313 kcal vs 183 kcal) per 100 g.

84%

35%

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