Why is Maoam selection classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

It is classified as ultra-processed because its formulation relies on refined sugars, glucose syrup, palm oil and a suite of industrial additives such as sorbitol (E420ii), citric acid (E330), gelatin (E428), talc (E553b) and beeswax (E901), which are characteristic of highly manufactured foods rather than whole-food ingredients.

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

With about 60 g of sugar per 100 g, the candy provides a very high glycaemic load that can cause rapid blood-glucose spikes, so people with diabetes should avoid or limit it; the low salt (0.03 g per 100 g) is not a concern for hypertension, but the excessive sugar outweighs any benefit.

Is Maoam selection suitable for a vegan diet?

No; the product contains gelatin derived from animal collagen and beeswax, both of which are non-vegan ingredients, so vegans should avoid it.

Dunhills, Maoam • 1140g

Maoam selection

Sugary Snacks

Product Insights

Maoam selection is a confectionery candy marketed by Dunhills and Maoam, consisting mainly of sugar, glucose syrup, palm oil and fruit concentrates, with additional ingredients such as gelatin, sorbitol, citric acid and various coating agents. It falls in the Sugary snacks / Sweets category, carries a Nutri-Score of E (score 23) and is classified as NOVA 4, reflecting its ultra-processed nature and a very high sugar level (approximately 60 g per 100 g) alongside moderate fat and very low salt. The product also receives an Eco-Score of C (58), but its environmental profile is lowered by the use of palm oil, animal-derived gelatin and beeswax, making it unsuitable for vegans and less sustainable than many alternatives.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

high

Salt

low

Comparative Analysis

Compared with typical confectionery, Maoam selection delivers one of the highest sugar concentrations on the market, with roughly 60 g of sugar per 100 g and only modest fat and salt levels.

Ingredients

sucre, sirop de glucose, huile de palme, humectant : sirop de sorbitol, acidifiant : acide citrique, gélatine, arôme, concentres de fruits et de végétales : carthame, citron, spiruline, radis, cassis, carotte, pomme ; sirop de sucre caramélisé, extrait de réglisse, antiagglomérant : talc, agent d'enrobage: cire d'abeille blanche et jaune, mélasse, sirop de sucre inverti.

84%

35%