Why is apple&blackcurrant dilute squash classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The drink combines water, fruit‑juice concentrate, acids, acidity regulators, flavourings and several preservatives, antioxidants and artificial sweeteners. Ingredients such as citric acid (E330), malic acid (E296), sodium citrates (E331), acesulfame K (E950), sucralose (E955), potassium sorbate (E202), sodium metabisulphite (E223) and ascorbic acid (E300) are all listed additives, which is why it is categorized as ultra‑processed under NOVA group 4.

How does the artificial‑sweetener content affect people managing diabetes or hypertension?

Because the product contains virtually no sugar (0.2 g per 100 g) and uses non‑caloric sweeteners like acesulfame K and sucralose, it does not raise blood glucose levels and therefore fits within most diabetic meal plans. The sweeteners do not contribute sodium, so they have no direct impact on blood pressure, although individuals who are sensitive to certain additives should monitor tolerance.

Is the apple in this drink a problem for individuals with apple allergy?

Apple is listed as an allergen in the ingredient declaration, so people with a known apple allergy should avoid this beverage to prevent possible allergic reactions.

morrisons

apple&blackcurrant dilute squash

Beverages

Product Insights

Apple&blackcurrant dilute squash is a concentrated fruit beverage marketed by Morrisons, containing water, 20% fruit juices from concentrate (apple and blackcurrant) and a blend of acids, sweeteners and preservatives. It belongs to the artificially sweetened beverages group, carries a NOVA 4 classification and has no Nutri‑Score listed, with virtually no fat, saturated fat or protein and only 0.2 g of sugar per 100 g. While its low sugar and fat make it low‑calorie, the presence of multiple synthetic additives (E330, E296, E331, E950, E955, E202, E223, E300) and artificial sweeteners means it is highly processed and offers little nutritional value.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

low

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

low

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g/ml

Energy Kcal1 kcal

Fat0 g

Saturated Fat0 g

Carbohydrates0.2 g

Sugars0.2 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average beverage, this squash contains only 0.2 g of sugar per 100 g versus 5.69 g on average, and virtually no fat or saturated fat, making it markedly lower in calories and fat than typical drinks.

Ingredients

Water, Fruit juices from concentrate (20%) (apple, blackcurrant), Acids (citric acid, malic acid), Acidity regulator (sodium citrates), Sweeteners (acesulfame K, sucralose), Flavourings, Fruit and vegetable concentrates (black carrot, hibiscus), Preservatives (potassium sorbate, sodium metabisulphite), Antioxidant (ascorbic acid).

84%

35%

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