Why is Gran Cereale biscuits with figs and almonds classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The product receives a NOVA 4 label because it includes several industrial ingredients such as added sugar, glucose syrup, soy lecithin as an emulsifier, and chemical leavening agents (sodium bicarbonate and ammonium bicarbonate). These components are typical of highly processed foods and raise the processing level despite the presence of whole grains and nuts.

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

With 17 g of sugars per 100 g, the biscuit supplies less sugar than the average biscuit but still represents a significant source that can raise blood glucose levels, so people with diabetes should consume it sparingly. The 0.67 g of salt is moderate and lower than typical biscuits, yet it contributes to daily sodium intake and should be considered by those managing high blood pressure.

Is the almond ingredient in this product a concern for nut allergies?

Yes. Almonds, listed at 4.1 % of the formulation, are a tree‑nut allergen and are highlighted in the allergen statement. The product also mentions possible cross‑contamination with other nuts, so individuals with nut allergies should avoid these biscuits.

Barilla, Gran Cereale • 250 g ℮

PROTEIN+ Fichi e mandorle

Sugary Snacks

Product Insights

Gran Cereale biscuits with figs and almonds are crunchy snack biscuits made from whole‑wheat flour, oat flakes, pea protein, almonds, figs and a touch of glucose syrup. Classified in the sugary‑snack and biscuits‑and‑cakes groups, they carry a Nutri‑Score of C and are labelled as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) due to added sugars, emulsifiers and raising agents. At 448 kcal per 100 g they deliver 16 g of protein and 7.6 g of fiber, but also contain 17 g of sugars, 0.67 g of salt and allergens such as gluten, eggs, milk, soy and nuts.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

high

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal448 kcal

Fat17 g

Saturated Fat1.7 g

Carbohydrates54 g

Sugars17 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average biscuit, this product contains less sugar (17 g vs 28.9 g), much lower saturated fat (1.7 g vs 7.8 g) and salt (0.67 g vs 1.98 g), while providing higher fiber (7.6 g vs 3.1 g) and protein (16 g vs 6.3 g), although its total energy (448 kcal) is slightly above the category average.

Ingredients

Farina integrale di grano tenero 24,4%, fiocchi di avena, zucchero, olio di semi di girasole, proteine di pisello, cereale croccante (glutine di frumento, farina di riso), farro (grano) integrale croccante [(farina integrale di farro (grano), zucchero, estratto di malto d'orzo, sale)], mandorle 4,1%, pasta di fichi 3,9%*, sciroppo di glucosio, emulsionante: lecitina di soia, agenti lievitanti (carbonato acido di sodio, carbonato acido d'ammonio), sale, aroma. *% espresse sul prodotto finito.

84%

35%

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