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

It combines refined sunflower oil, added sugars, corn fiber, whey powder, milk proteins, natural flavourings with milk, and the acidity regulator lactic acid (E270), all of which are typical of industrial formulations, placing it in the NOVA 4 category.

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

The sugar level (5 g per 100 g) is moderate and unlikely to cause major glucose spikes when consumed in small portions, but the salt amount (3.2 g per 100 g) exceeds the recommended daily limit of 2 g, which can raise blood pressure and should be limited for people with hypertension.

Are cashew nuts in this pesto a concern for people with nut allergies?

Yes, cashew nuts are listed as an ingredient and the label notes possible traces of other tree nuts, so anyone allergic to nuts should avoid this product.

Barilla • 190 g

Pesto genovese senza aglio 190g

Fat And Sauces

Product Insights

Pesto genovese senza aglio is a 190 g glass‑jar pesto made in Italy, classified under the Fat and sauces and Dressings and sauces groups. It delivers a very high fat content (47 g per 100 g) with saturated fat at 5.3 g, moderate sugars (5 g) and a high salt level of 3.2 g, resulting in a Nutri‑Score of E and a NOVA 4 ultra‑processed rating. The formulation includes basil, sunflower oil, cashew nuts, Parmesan cheese and milk proteins, so it is not vegan and contains milk and nut allergens, but it is gluten‑free and carries a vegetarian label.

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 pesto (per 100 g), this product contains far more fat and saturated fat, less sugar, and slightly less salt.

Ingredients

Huile de tournesol, basilic 30%, NOIX DE CAJOU, fromage Parmigiano Reggiano AOP 5% (LAIT), fibre de maïs, lactosérum en poudre (LAIT), sel, protéines de LAIT, arômes naturels (LAIT) huile d'olive vierge extra, sucre, correcteur d'acidité: acide lactique. Peut contenir des traces d'autres FRUITS A COQUE.

84%

35%

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