Why is MEZZE HOUMOUS + RAINBOW VEG GRAIN BOWL classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The product is actually classified as NOVA 3, meaning it is moderately processed; it includes several prepared components such as Harissa paste, Zhoug dressing and roasted ingredients, and the only listed additive is E260 (acetic acid).

How do the sugar and salt levels in this bowl affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

With 5.09 g of sugar per 100 g, the bowl contains more sugar than the average meal, which can cause blood‑glucose spikes for diabetics, while its low salt content of 0.57 g per 100 g is well below the typical 3.55 g average and is therefore suitable for hypertension management.

Is the sesame in the tahini a concern for people with sesame allergy?

Yes, tahini is made from sesame seeds, and the ingredient list highlights sesame as an allergen, so anyone allergic to sesame should avoid this product.

POLLEN + GRACE • 275

MEZZE HOUMOUS + RAINBOW VEG GRAIN BOWL

Composite Foods

Product Insights

MEZZE HOUMOUS + RAINBOW VEG GRAIN BOWL is a plant‑based, gluten‑free ready‑to‑eat meal that falls under the Composite foods (One‑dish meals) category. It carries a Nutri‑Score of B and is rated NOVA 3, indicating moderate processing, and it offers a good amount of fiber (3.35 g per 100 g) and 51 % fruits‑vegetables‑legumes, while its protein content (4.36 g per 100 g) is lower than average. However, its sugar level (5.09 g per 100 g) exceeds typical meal averages and it contains the additive E260 (acetic acid) and sesame seeds, which may be concerns for some consumers.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

moderate

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g/ml

Energy Kcal151 kcal

Comparative Analysis

Compared to typical meal averages, this bowl contains more sugar (5.09 g vs 3.57 g) and less salt (0.57 g vs 3.55 g), while offering higher fiber (3.35 g vs 2.08 g) but lower protein (4.36 g vs 7.16 g).

Ingredients

Dukkah Quinoa Mix (White Quinoa (19%), Chickpeas, Dukkah Mix [Roasted Chickpeas, Kalonji Seeds, Sea Salt, Rapeseed Oil, Sweet Paprika, Cracked Black Pepper, Roasted Cracked Coriander, Fennel Seeds], Harissa Paste [Red Chilli Purée, Garlic Purée, Olive Oil, Tomato Paste, Sea Salt, Ground Coriander Seed, Acetic Acid, Paprika, Ground Cumin Seed, Ground Caraway Seed, Mint], Sea Salt), Houmous (20%) (Chickpeas, Rapeseed Oil, Lemon Juice, Tahini (SESAME), Garlic, Sea Salt), Roasted Sweet Potato (13%) (Sweet Potato, Rapeseed Oil, Salt, Cayenne Pepper), Pickled Cabbage (10%), Sliced Cucumber, Grilled Red Peppers, Rocket (3%), Zhoug Dressing (7%), (Water, Cider Vinegar, Rapeseed Oil, Coriander Leaf, Muscovado Sugar, Apple Juice Concentrate, Parsley, Green Chilli Purée, Cornflour, Salt, Garlic Purée, Cumin Powder). Allergy Information: For allergens please see ingredients in BOLD. Made in a facility which handles soya.

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