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

The sauce combines refined olive oil, processed cheese made with rennet, added salt and acidity regulators, which are typical of ultra‑processed foods; the only listed additive is lactic acid (E270), used to adjust acidity.

How does the high fat and salt content in Green Pesto affect a heart‑healthy or hypertensive diet?

The elevated fat, especially saturated fat, can raise LDL cholesterol, while the moderate salt contributes to higher blood pressure; together they make the pesto less suitable for diets aiming to reduce cardiovascular risk and may require portion control.

Is the Pecorino Romano cheese in this product a concern for people with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance?

Yes, Pecorino Romano is made from ewe's milk and contains residual lactose, so the pesto is not safe for individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance and is therefore labelled non‑vegan.

Asda

Green Pesto

Fat And Sauces

Product Insights

Green Pesto is a ready‑to‑use sauce classified within the Dressings and Sauces group and falls under the Fat and Sauces PNNS category. It delivers a very high fiber content (24 g per 100 g) but also a very high fat level (44 g) with saturated fat at 7.3 g and a moderate salt level of 1.18 g, while sugars are low at 1 g. The product carries a Nutri‑Score of D, is placed in NOVA group 4 due to processing and additives such as lactic acid (E270), and contains milk‑derived Pecorino Romano cheese and trace nuts, which are allergens for some consumers.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

high

Saturated Fat

high

Sugars

low

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g/ml

Energy Kcal413 kcal

Energy1702 kJ

Fat42.9 g

Saturated Fat8.7 g

Cholesterol0 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average pesto, Green Pesto provides far more fat (44 g vs 12 g) and saturated fat (7.3 g vs 2.1 g) and roughly double the calories (434 kcal vs 183 kcal), but contains markedly less sugar (1 g vs 11 g) and salt (1.18 g vs 5 g).

Ingredients

Basil (41%), Olive Oil (38.6%), Pecorino Romano Cheese PDO (Unpasteurised Ewe's Milk, using Lamb's Rennet) (9%), Cashew Nuts Pine Nuts (2%), Pea Fibre, Salt, Acidity Regulators (Lactic Acid, Ascort Adid), Garlic Purée. Allergy Advice! for allergens, see ingredients in bold. May also contain other nuts and peanuts. STORAGE Energy

84%

35%

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