Why is Sweet chilli and garlic sauce classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The sauce is made mainly from refined carbohydrate sources such as glucose syrup and sugar, includes modified maize starch for texture, and uses a preservative (potassium sorbate) to extend shelf life; these characteristics match the definition of an ultra‑processed food in the NOVA system.

How does the high sugar and salt content in Sweet chilli and garlic sauce affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

With 69 g of sugar per 100 ml, the sauce can cause rapid blood‑glucose spikes, making it unsuitable for tight diabetic control, while 1.5 g of salt per 100 ml contributes to sodium intake that may raise blood pressure, so both groups should limit or avoid regular consumption.

Is Sweet chilli and garlic sauce suitable for a vegan diet or other strict dietary regimes?

All listed ingredients are plant‑derived and contain no animal products, so the sauce is generally compatible with vegan and vegetarian diets; it also lacks common allergens such as gluten, dairy, and nuts, though consumers should verify certification for cross‑contamination concerns.

Tesco

Sweet chilli and garlic sauce

Fat And Sauces

Product Insights

Sweet chilli and garlic sauce is a condiment that falls under the 'Fat and sauces' and 'Dressings and sauces' categories in the PNNS classification. It carries a Nutri‑Score of E, reflecting very high sugar (69 g per 100 ml) and moderate salt (1.5 g per 100 ml) while containing low saturated fat (0.3 g) and a small amount of fiber (1.1 g). The product is classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA group 4) and includes additives such as potassium sorbate, which may be a concern for consumers seeking minimally processed foods.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

low

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

high

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g/ml

Energy Kcal334 kcal

Fat0.6 g

Saturated Fat0.3 g

Carbohydrates80.6 g

Sugars69 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average sauce, this Sweet chilli and garlic sauce provides far more sugar (69 g vs 10.95 g per 100 g) and higher energy (334 kcal vs 183 kcal), but considerably less fat (0.6 g vs 12.01 g) and lower salt (1.5 g vs 5.02 g).

Ingredients

Glucose Syrup, Sugar, Water, Spirit Vinegar, Garie Purée (4%), Modified Maize Starch, Salt, Dried Garlic, Birdseye Chilli 10.7%), Red Pepper, Chill Flakes 10.4%), Preservative Potassium Sorbatel Suitable for vegans Recycling BOTTLE Recycle 250ml e Tesco Stores Ltd, Welwyn Garden City ALT YGA, UK Tesco Ireland Ltd, Gresham House, Marine Road, Dun Laghaire Co. Dublin Tesco 2020. SC0918 557753 91319

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