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

The pesto is labeled NOVA 4 because it combines many separate ingredients, including added sugars, salt, lactic acid (E270) as an acidity regulator, and natural flavourings that contain milk, which are typical of ultra‑processed foods.

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

While the pesto is low in carbohydrates, its very high total fat (47 g) and saturated fat (5.3 g) can increase calorie intake and may raise LDL cholesterol, so people with diabetes or hypertension should use it sparingly and balance it with lower‑fat foods.

Is the cashew nut ingredient in this pesto a concern for people with nut allergies?

Yes, the product lists cashew nuts among its ingredients and mentions traces of nuts, so anyone allergic to tree nuts should avoid this pesto.

Barilla • 190 g e

PESTO alla GENOVESE

Fat And Sauces

Product Insights

PESTO alla GENOVESE is a 190 g glass‑packaged green basil pesto produced in Italy and marketed as a condiment for pasta and other dishes. It falls within the Fat and sauces (Dressings and sauces) dietary group, carries a Nutri‑Score of E and is classified in NOVA group 4, reflecting its ultra‑processed nature and the presence of added sugars, salt, lactic acid and flavorings. Nutritionally, the pesto is very high in fat (47 g per 100 g) and saturated fat (5.3 g), contains moderate sugar (5 g) and high fiber (3 g), but its salt level (3.2 g) is lower than average for similar sauces.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

high

Saturated Fat

high

Sugars

moderate

Salt

high

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal492 kcal

Fat47 g

Saturated Fat5.3 g

Carbohydrates11 g

Sugars5 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average sauce, this pesto contains far less sugar (5 g vs 10.9 g) and salt (3.2 g vs 5.1 g) per 100 g, but its fat content is almost four times higher (47 g vs 12.0 g) and its saturated fat more than double the norm.

Ingredients

sunflower oil, fresh basil 30%, cashew nuts, parmigiano reggiano pdo cheese 5%, (milk), maize fibre, whey powder (milk), salt, milk protein, extra virgin olive oil, sugar, basil extract, natural flavourings (milk), acidity regulator: lactic acid, garlic

84%

35%

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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about PESTO alla GENOVESE.

Barilla

190 g

Barilla Pesto Ricotta e Noci alla Siciliana

View Analysis

Morrisons

190g