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

It is labelled NOVA 4 because the formulation combines refined oils, concentrated tomato extracts, rehydrated sun-dried tomatoes and several food‑grade additives; the present additives are colourant-free stabiliser E1105, acidity regulators E270 (lactic acid) and E330 (citric acid), and antioxidant E300 (ascorbic acid).

How does the sugar and salt content in Red Pesto affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

With 5.1 g of sugars per 100 g, the pesto adds a modest amount of carbohydrate that can raise blood glucose if consumed in large portions, while its 1.1 g of salt contributes to sodium intake but remains below the average sauce level, making it a comparatively lower-salt option for hypertension when used sparingly.

Is Red Pesto suitable for strict diets such as vegan, keto, halal or gluten-free?

The product is not vegan or halal because it contains Grana Padano and Pecorino cheeses made with animal rennet and an egg-based preservative; it is not keto-friendly due to 6.5 g of carbs per 100 g, but it is certified gluten-free.

ASDA • 190 g

Red Pesto

Fat And Sauces

Product Insights

Red Pesto is a ready-to-use sauce that falls under the 'Fat and sauces' and 'Dressings and sauces' groups, packaged in a 190 g jar and labeled gluten-free with no artificial colours. It carries a Nutri-Score of D and is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA group 4), containing 23 g of fat, 3.1 g of saturated fat, 5.1 g of sugars and 1.1 g of salt per 100 g, which gives it a high energy value of 248 kcal. While it provides modest fiber (2.2 g) and protein (2.6 g) and is free from artificial colours, it includes allergens (eggs, milk, nuts) and several additives (E1105, E270, E300, E330) and even a trace of hydrogenated fat, which may be a concern for some consumers.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

high

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

moderate

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal248 kcal

Fat23 g

Saturated Fat3.1 g

Cholesterol0 g

Carbohydrates6.5 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average ready-made sauce, Red Pesto contains markedly more fat (23 g vs 12 g) and calories (248 kcal vs 183 kcal) but far less sugar (5.1 g vs 10.9 g), salt (1.1 g vs 5 g) and total carbohydrates (6.5 g vs 16.3 g).

Ingredients

Sunflower Oil, Rehydrated Sun-dried Tomatoes (20%) [Sun-dried Tomatoes, Water, Salt, Acidity Regulator (Citric Acid)], Double Tomato Concentrate (15%), Tomat Pulp (12%), Water, Basil (6%), Grana Padano Cheese (5%) [Cheese Chasteurised Milk, using Calf's Rennet), Preservative (Egg Lysozyme)]. Red Peppers (4%), Pecorino Romano Cheese (Unpasteurised Ewe's Milk, using Lamb's Rennet) (1%), Cashew Nut Flour, Sugar, Pine Nuts, Salt, Acidity Regulator (Lactic Acid), Garlic Powder, Antioxidant (Ascorbic Acid). Allergy Advice! for allergens, see ingredients in bold. May also contain traces of other nuts, peanuts and sesame seeds. NO ARTIFICIAL COLOURS, FLAVOURS OR HYDROGENATED FAT. HOW TO PREPARE Stir the contents of the jar into hot pasta. NUTRITION We suggest this product provides 4 servings Typical Values Per Energy k Energy kal Fat 100g 248

84%

35%

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