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

The product is labeled NOVA 4 because its ingredient list includes refined oils, cheese, egg protein and several processed components such as glucose syrup and a proprietary blend called "gemidle 005"; these ingredients undergo industrial processing and act as stabilisers, emulsifiers or flavor enhancers, which moves the sauce into the ultra‑processed category even though no separate additive codes are listed.

How does the salt content in this pesto affect a hypertensive diet?

With 2.8 g of salt per 100 g, the pesto contributes a noticeable amount of sodium; regular consumption can push daily sodium intake toward or above recommended limits for people with high blood pressure, so it should be limited or balanced with low‑salt foods in a hypertensive diet.

Is the pecorino romano cheese in this pesto a concern for individuals with a milk allergy?

Yes, pecorino romano is a dairy cheese that contains milk proteins, so the pesto is not suitable for anyone allergic to milk; the product is clearly labelled with a milk allergen warning.

Grana Padano, Grand'Italia

Pesto alla genovese

Fat And Sauces

Product Insights

Pesto alla genovese is a green sauce classified in the PNNS groups "Fat and sauces" and "Dressings and sauces". It carries a Nutri‑Score of E and is placed in the ultra‑processed NOVA 4 category, with a very high fat content (41 g per 100 g), high saturated fat (6.2 g) and a high salt level (2.8 g), while sugars are moderate at 5.2 g. The pesto does provide basil‑derived flavor, a small amount of fiber and low sugar, but its dense calorie and fat profile means it should be used sparingly as a condiment.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

high

Saturated Fat

high

Sugars

moderate

Salt

high

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g/ml

Energy Kcal431 kcal

Fat41 g

Saturated Fat6.2 g

Carbohydrates9.6 g

Sugars5.2 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with typical condiments, this pesto contains far more fat (41 g vs 12 g) and saturated fat (6.2 g vs 2.1 g), but considerably less sugar (5.2 g vs 10.9 g) and lower salt (2.8 g vs 5.0 g) per 100 g.

Ingredients

sunflower oil, basil (29%), gemidle 005 (up 4,5%) (with egg proteiïne), pecorino romano cheese, 45%, salt, extra-virgin olive oil olifolie, pijnboompiten (la gardappels, glucose syrup, cashew nuts, grana padano, bd is made from ingredients derived from nature, natuulijke natural flavourings, garlic, concentrated itoensap a anom 1o italia no * pr odotto check

84%

35%

Unlock What Your Food Doesn't Tell You

Scan this and millions of other food products to discover hidden positive & negative points, scores percentage, additives, allergens, and deeper product insights with the free NutrScan app.