Why is Crispy French Fries classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

It is classified as ultra-processed because the potatoes are coated in a refined batter made from wheat flour, modified starches, rice flour, corn starch, salt, sunflower oil and colour agents before freezing; the labelled additives are turmeric extract (E100) and paprika extract (E160c) for colour, plus a generic colour additive falling under the E14xx group.

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

The low sugar (0.4 g per 100 g) means it contributes minimally to blood glucose spikes, making it more acceptable for diabetics when eaten in moderation, while the low salt (0.6 g per 100 g) helps limit sodium intake, which benefits hypertensive individuals; however, it remains a fried item with moderate calories and fat, so portion control is still important for both conditions.

Is this product suitable for vegan, halal, kosher and gluten‑free diets?

It is certified vegan, halal and kosher because it contains only plant‑based ingredients, but it includes wheat flour that provides gluten, so it is not suitable for a gluten‑free diet.

McCain • 900 g

Crispy French Fries

Chips And Fries

Product Insights

Crispy French Fries are a frozen, thin-cut potato product classified in the PNNS potatoes group and marketed as vegan, halal and kosher. It earns a Nutri-Score of B and falls in NOVA group 4, indicating an ultra-processed item, yet it delivers low sugar (0.4 g per 100 g), low salt (0.6 g per 100 g) and relatively high fiber (3.3 g per 100 g) compared with typical frozen fries, while providing about 232 kcal per 100 g and containing wheat flour, which adds gluten. The formulation includes 7 % sunflower oil and colour additives such as turmeric extract (E100) and paprika extract (E160c), which some consumers may wish to avoid, but its moderate fat and low saturated-fat profile make it less unhealthy than many deep-fried alternatives.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

low

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal231 kcal

Fat7.7 g

Saturated Fat0.9 g

Carbohydrates35.5 g

Sugars0.4 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average frozen French-fries category (2.12 g sugar, 3.07 g salt and 2.64 g fiber per 100 g), this product contains only 0.4 g sugar, 0.6 g salt and 3.3 g fiber, making it markedly lower in sugar and salt and higher in fiber.

Ingredients

Potatoes 85.6%, Batter (_Wheat_ Flour (with Calcium, Iron, Niacin, Thiamin), Modified Starch (Maize, Tapioca), Rice Flour, Salt, Corn Starch, Turmeric Extract, Colour (Paprika Extract)), Sunflower Oil 7%.

84%

35%

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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Crispy French Fries.

McCain

1.4 kg