Why is Caramelised onion houmous classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

It is classified as NOVA 4 because the formulation includes refined rapeseed oil, muscovado sugar, balsamic and wine vinegars, caramelised onion, and added salt, all of which are industrially processed ingredients; the product lists no separate additive codes, so the processing itself accounts for the ultra-processed rating.

How does the relatively high fat and protein composition of this hummus influence a balanced diet or weight management?

The 19.4 g of fat and 5 g of protein per 100 g provide a dense source of energy and satiety, which can be beneficial for individuals needing higher caloric intake, but the high fat content also raises total calorie load, making portion control important for weight-management or low-fat diets.

Is the sesame present in the tahini a concern for people with sesame allergy, and how is it declared on the label?

Tahini contributes sesame seed paste, a recognized allergen; the ingredient list explicitly mentions "Tahini Sesame Seed Paste," so the product is required to declare sesame, and consumers with a sesame allergy should avoid it.

Tesco

Caramelised onion houmous

Fat And Sauces

Product Insights

Caramelised onion houmous is a plant-based spread that falls under the Fat and sauces (Dressings and sauces) group and is sold by Tesco. It carries a Nutri-Score of C (score 6) and is classified as NOVA 4, reflecting its ultra-processed formulation with refined rapeseed oil, added sugar and several flavoring ingredients. Per 100 g it provides 19.4 g fat, 5 g protein, 4.3 g sugars and 0.8 g salt, giving it a high calorie density despite the low sugar and salt levels.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

low

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g/ml

Energy Kcal256 kcal

Fat19.4 g

Saturated Fat1.8 g

Carbohydrates12.4 g

Sugars4.3 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average plant-based spread, this hummus contains substantially more fat (19.4 g vs 12.0 g) and calories (256 kcal vs 183 kcal) but far less sugar (4.3 g vs 10.9 g) and salt (0.8 g vs 5.0 g).

Ingredients

Cooked Chickpeas (40%) [Water, Chickpeas], Caramelised Onion (33%) [Onion, Balsamic Vinegar [Red Wine Vinegar, Grape Must Concentrate], Garlic Purée, Muscovado Sugar, Rapeseed Oil, Salt], Rapeseed Oil, Tahini Sesame Seed Paste, Water, Concentrated Lemon Juice, Garlic, Salt.

84%

35%

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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Caramelised onion houmous.

Tesco

182g