Why is Oat Flake Shortbread classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

It is classified as NOVA 4 because the formulation uses refined ingredients, added sugars, palm oil and a chemical leavening system; the only listed additives are the raising agents sodium carbonate (E500) and ammonium carbonate (E503).

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

With 22.9 g of sugar and 0.82 g of salt per 100 g, the biscuit can cause rapid blood-glucose spikes and add a noticeable amount of sodium, making it a poor choice for strict diabetic or high blood pressure diets.

Is the palm oil in this product a concern for sustainability?

Palm oil production is linked to deforestation and habitat loss, and because the ingredient source is not disclosed, its use lowers the product's environmental score and may be a sustainability concern.

McVitie's • 255 g

Sablés aux flocons d'avoine

Sugary Snacks

Product Insights

Oat Flake Shortbread from McVitie's are oat-flaked shortbread biscuits, classified as sugary snacks and biscuits. They carry a Nutri-Score of E and belong to the ultra-processed NOVA 4 group, with high sugar (22.9 g per 100 g), saturated fat (8.8 g per 100 g), and moderate salt (0.82 g per 100 g), but also provide a good amount of dietary fiber (6.5 g per 100 g) from oat flakes and whole-wheat flour. The product contains gluten, palm oil, and the additives E500 (sodium carbonate) and E503 (ammonium carbonate), which may be concerns for allergen-sensitive or environmentally-conscious consumers.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

high

Saturated Fat

high

Sugars

high

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal472 kcal

Fat20.2 g

Saturated Fat8.8 g

Carbohydrates61.8 g

Sugars22.9 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average sugary snack (28.98 g sugar, 17.65 g fat, 7.8 g saturated fat, 1.98 g salt, 418 kcal, 3.07 g fiber per 100 g), this biscuit contains less sugar (22.9 g), more saturated fat (8.8 g), higher energy (about 472 kcal), considerably more fiber (6.5 g), and lower salt (0.82 g) than the average.

Ingredients

Flocons d'avoine (40 %), farine de blé complète (24 %), huile de palme, sucre, sirop de sucre inverti, poudre à lever (carbonates de sodium, carbonates d'ammonium), sel

84%

35%

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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Sablés aux flocons d'avoine.

McVitie's

300 g