Why is Butter Beans in Water classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The product is labeled NOVA 4 because it is a canned food that undergoes preservation, addition of water, firming agents and antioxidants; the formulation includes calcium chloride as a firming agent, ascorbic acid as an antioxidant, and sodium metabisulphite as a preservative and antioxidant.

Is the sodium metabisulphite in this product a concern for people with sulphite sensitivity?

Sodium metabisulphite releases sulphite ions, which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, so people with sulphite intolerance should avoid this product.

Based on the ingredients, is this product suitable for strict diets like Vegan, Keto, Halal, or Gluten-Free?

All listed ingredients are plant-based and contain no animal products or gluten, making the product suitable for vegan and gluten‑free diets; its carbohydrate level (15.6 g per 100 g) is too high for a strict Keto regimen, and it is not certified Halal.

Napolina • 400g

Butter Beans in Water

Fruits And Vegetables

Product Insights

Butter Beans in Water is a canned legume product classified in the vegetables subgroup of the fruits and vegetables PNNS category. It carries a Nutri-Score of A and falls into the ultra-processed NOVA 4 group, offering low fat (0.5 g), no sugars, low salt (0.05 g) and a high protein content of 7.2 g per 100 g, complemented by 6.8 g of dietary fiber. However, the presence of additives such as calcium chloride, ascorbic acid and sodium metabisulphite, as well as a relatively high energy value of 109 kcal per 100 g, tempers its otherwise health-focused profile.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

low

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

low

Salt

low

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal109 kcal

Fat0.5 g

Saturated Fat0 g

Carbohydrates15.6 g

Sugars0 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average canned legume product, this butter bean offering contains no sugars, significantly less fat and salt, but provides more protein and fiber, while its calorie count is modestly higher than the typical 83 kcal per 100 g.

Ingredients

Butter Beans 60%, Water, Firming Agent (Calcium Chloride), Antioxidants (Ascorbic Acid, _Sodium Metabisulphite_).

84%

35%

Unlock What Your Food Doesn't Tell You

Scan this and millions of other food products to discover hidden positive & negative points, scores percentage, additives, allergens, and deeper product insights with the free NutrScan app.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Butter Beans in Water.

Sainsbury's

400g