Why is Chili con carne classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The product contains multiple industrial ingredients such as sodium nitrite for preservation, guar gum as a stabiliser, flavourings that include soy, and added salt and sugar, which together meet the criteria for an ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) food.

How does the salt content of this canned chili affect people with hypertension or cardiovascular concerns?

With 0.88 g of salt per 100 g, a typical serving contributes around 10 % of the daily recommended maximum of 5 g, which can be significant for individuals managing high blood pressure and may require portion control.

Is the soy ingredient in this product a concern for individuals with soy allergies, and how is it listed on the label?

Yes, soy is present in the flavouring component and is clearly declared as an allergen on the ingredient list, so anyone with a soy allergy should avoid this product.

Old El Paso,General Mills

Chili con carne

Fish Meat Eggs

Product Insights

Chili con carne is a canned ready‑meal that combines seasoned beef, red beans, tomato purée and spices, sold under the Old El Paso/General Mills brand. It falls into the Meat group of the PNNS classification, carries a Nutri‑Score of C and is considered an ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) food, offering 104 kcal, 2.8 g fat (low), 0.88 g salt (moderate) and 8.6 g protein per 100 g. While it provides modest protein and low saturated fat, it also contains added sodium nitrite, guar gum, soy‑derived flavorings and wheat flour, and its salt level is higher than the recommended limit for low‑sodium diets.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

low

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

low

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g/ml

Energy Kcal104 kcal

Fat2.8 g

Saturated Fat1.2 g

Carbohydrates9.3 g

Sugars2.3 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average values for canned meals, this chili contains far less fat, saturated fat and salt, but provides more carbohydrates and less protein.

Ingredients

Chili con carne Ingredientes: Agua, carne de vacuno acecinada (26%) ortene conservador: nitrito sódico), alubias rojas (23%), puré de tomate (12%), cebol pmenb rojo (0,5%) pimiento verde (0,5%), especias (0,45%), vinagre de alcohol,almi amcato de maiz, harina de trigo, aroma (contiene soja), sal, azúcar, potenciador del sa Amalo de monosodio; estabilizante: goma guar; plantas aromáticas (contiene apio, Buacto de pimentón. Alérgenos: ver ingredientes en negrita. Conservar en uga hoso y seco. Una vez abierto, mantener en el frigorífico y consumir en una semana.

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