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

The product combines several processed ingredients, refined olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, salted pine nuts and basil puree, and usually includes additives such as citric acid or antioxidants to preserve colour and flavour, which places it in the ultra‑processed NOVA 4 category.

How does the high fat and salt content in this pesto affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

The 44 g of fat per 100 g raises total calorie intake and can worsen insulin resistance, while the 3 g of salt may increase blood pressure; both factors suggest that people with diabetes or hypertension should consume the pesto only in small amounts and balance it with lower‑fat, low‑salt foods.

Is this pesto suitable for vegan, keto, or gluten‑free diets?

It is not vegan because it contains Parmesan cheese, and its carbohydrate level (15 g per 100 g) exceeds typical keto limits, making it unsuitable for strict keto plans; however, it is generally gluten‑free as it contains no wheat‑derived ingredients.

Conad • 190 g

Pesto alla genovese

Fat And Sauces

Product Insights

Pesto alla genovese is a 190 g glass‑jar condiment produced in Italy and sold by Conad, belonging to the Fat and sauces and Dressings and sauces groups. It carries a Nutri‑Score of E and falls into the ultra‑processed NOVA 4 category; per 100 g it provides 480 kcal, 44 g of fat (including 6.1 g saturated fat), 3 g of salt, 2 g of fibre and 4.9 g of protein. While its low sugar content and modest fibre offer some nutritional offset, the high energy, fat and salt levels make the overall profile less health‑friendly.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

high

Saturated Fat

high

Sugars

low

Salt

high

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal480 kcal

Fat44 g

Saturated Fat6.1 g

Carbohydrates15 g

Sugars4.5 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average values for similar sauces (12 g fat, 2.1 g saturated fat and 10.95 g sugars per 100 g), this pesto contains about 44 g fat (≈3.7 × higher), 6.1 g saturated fat (≈3 × higher) and only 4.5 g sugars (less than half the average), while its 3 g salt is lower than the typical 5 g average but still classified as high.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Pesto alla genovese.

Lidl

550 g