Why is Mc Vities Digestive classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

It is considered ultra‑processed because the formulation relies on industrial ingredients such as refined wheat flour, palm oil, invert sugar syrup and a blend of raising agents (sodium carbonates – E500, malic acid – E296, and ammonium carbonates – E503); these additives are typical of NOVA 4 foods.

How does the sugar and saturated‑fat content in this product affect a diabetic or cardiovascular diet?

The 15.1 g of sugar per 100 g can cause rapid blood‑glucose spikes, making it unsuitable for tight diabetic control, while the 10.1 g of saturated fat may raise LDL cholesterol and increase cardiovascular risk when consumed regularly.

Is the wheat flour in this biscuit a concern for people with gluten intolerance?

Yes; the product contains 55 % wheat flour and whole‑wheat flour, both sources of gluten, so it is not safe for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

McVitie's • 2 x 500 g

Mc Vities digestive

Sugary Snacks

Product Insights

Mc Vities Digestive is a sweet biscuit classified as a sugary snack and falls within the "Sugary snacks" and "Biscuits and cakes" product families. It carries a Nutri‑Score of E and is tagged as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4), reflecting its high levels of sugar (15.1 g), saturated fat (10.1 g) and moderate salt (1.3 g) per 100 g. Although it provides 3.7 g of fiber and 7 g of protein, the overall nutrient profile is less favorable compared with typical snack averages.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

high

Saturated Fat

high

Sugars

high

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal483 kcal

Fat21.3 g

Saturated Fat10.1 g

Carbohydrates63.6 g

Sugars15.1 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average snack, this digestive biscuit contains less sugar (15.1 g vs 28.98 g) and lower salt (1.3 g vs 1.98 g) but higher fat (21.3 g vs 17.65 g), saturated fat (10.1 g vs 7.8 g), carbohydrates (63.6 g vs 59.61 g), protein (7 g vs 6.33 g) and energy (483 kcal vs 418 kcal).

Ingredients

Farina 55% (farina di _grano_, calcio, ferro, niacina, tiammina), olio di palma, farina integrale di _grano_ 16%, zucchero, agenti lievitanti (carbonati di sodio, acido malico, carbonati di ammonio), sciroppo di zucchero invertito, sale

84%

35%

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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Mc Vities digestive.

McVitie's

250 g