Why is Tex-Mex classified as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The snack is made from refined corn, vegetable oils and a cheese‑flavored seasoning that includes multiple industrial additives such as colorants (E160c, E160b), flavor enhancers (E621), preservatives (E270, E330) and caramel coloring (E150). These ingredients, together with the extensive processing steps, place the product in the NOVA 4 ultra‑processed group.

How does the sugar and salt content in Tex-Mex affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

With only 2.3 g of sugar per 100 g, the snack has a relatively low impact on blood glucose, but portions can quickly add up in calories. The 1 g of salt per 100 g is moderate; for people managing hypertension, it contributes to daily sodium intake and should be consumed sparingly.

Is Tex-Mex suitable for vegan, gluten‑free, or keto diets?

No. The formulation contains dairy-derived ingredients such as whey powder, cheese powder and milk proteins, making it unsuitable for vegans. It also includes wheat flour, so it is not gluten‑free. The high carbohydrate level (56.9 g per 100 g) means it does not fit a keto diet.

Doritos • 260 g

Tex-Mex

Salty Snacks

Product Insights

Tex-Mex is a Doritos corn chip snack that belongs to the Salty snacks group. It carries a Nutri-Score of D and is classified in the ultra‑processed NOVA 4 category, reflecting a high fat content (25.8 g per 100 g) and moderate salt (1 g per 100 g) while keeping sugars low at 2.3 g. The product provides 4.8 g of fiber and 6.6 g of protein, but it also contains six listed additives and allergens (gluten and milk), which may be a concern for sensitive consumers.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

high

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

low

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal497 kcal

Fat25.8 g

Saturated Fat3.4 g

Carbohydrates56.9 g

Sugars2.3 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average corn‑chip category, Tex-Mex contains slightly more fat, less sugar and dramatically less salt per 100 g.

Ingredients

Maíz 80%, aceites vegetales (maíz, girasol), condimento preparado con sabor a queso (suero de _leche_ en polvo, harina de _trigo_, sal, queso en polvo (_leche_), tomate en polvo, preparaciones y sustancias aromatizantes (_leche_), cebolla en polvo, suero de mantequilla en polvo (_leche_), cloruro potásico, potenciador del sabor (glutamato monosódico), proteínas de _leche_, ajo en polvo, dextrosa, correctores de acidez (ácido láctico, ácido cítrico), colorantes (extracto de pimentón, bixina de bija, caramelo natural), especias, azúcar, _leche_ desnatada en polvo).

84%

35%

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