Why is Pesto alla Genovese classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The product is listed as NOVA 4 because it combines multiple processed ingredients, is packaged in glass, and includes additives such as the acidity regulator lactic acid (E270) and bamboo fibre, which are introduced during industrial formulation rather than being traditional whole‑food components.

How does the high fat and saturated‑fat content in this pesto affect people following a heart‑healthy or low‑fat diet?

With 34.1 g of total fat and 6.3 g of saturated fat per 100 g, the pesto contributes a large amount of calories and saturated fatty acids, which can raise LDL cholesterol levels; therefore, it should be used sparingly or balanced with lower‑fat foods by those aiming to reduce cardiovascular risk.

Is the milk present in the Parmigiano Reggiano and Pecorino Romano cheeses a concern for people with dairy allergies?

Yes, both cheeses contain milk proteins, and the product’s allergen label flags milk, so individuals with a dairy allergy should avoid this pesto.

Tesco • 190 g

Pesto alla Genovese

Fat And Sauces

Product Insights

Pesto alla Genovese is a ready‑to‑use green sauce packed in a glass jar, composed mainly of basil (50 %), extra‑virgin olive oil, Parmesan and Pecorino cheeses, pine nuts and garlic. It belongs to the ‘Fat and sauces’ and ‘Dressings and sauces’ groups, carries a Nutri‑Score of D and is classified in NOVA group 4, reflecting its ultra‑processed status. Nutritionally it is very high in fat (34.1 g/100 g) and saturated fat (6.3 g/100 g), moderate in salt (0.9 g/100 g), very low in sugars (0.2 g/100 g) and provides 343 kcal per 100 g, while also containing milk protein which triggers a dairy allergen warning.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

high

Saturated Fat

high

Sugars

low

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Added Sugars0.1 g

Fruits & Vegetables74.7 %

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average pesto/sauce (per 100 g), this pesto contains dramatically more fat (34.1 g vs 12.0 g) and saturated fat (6.3 g vs 2.1 g), but far less sugar (0.2 g vs 11 g) and salt (0.9 g vs 5.0 g).

Ingredients

Basil (50%), Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Parmigiano Reggiano Medium Fat Hard Cheese (Milk) (6%), Pine Nuts (4%), Pecorino Romano Medium Fat Hard Cheese (3.5%), Garlic, Sugar, Bamboo Fibre, Salt, Acidity Regulator (lactic acid)

84%

35%

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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Pesto alla Genovese.

Cucina

190 g