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

Mantecadas receive a NOVA 4 rating because they are formulated with refined wheat flour, added sugars, multiple food‑grade additives and industrial processing steps. The label lists diphosphates (E450), sodium carbonates (E500i), citric acid (E331i), sorbitol (E420), glycerin (E422), calcium carbonate (E170i), sorbic acid (E200) and flavorings, all of which are typical of ultra‑processed foods.

How does the sugar and salt content of Mantecadas affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

With 21 g of sugar per 100 g, Mantecadas can cause rapid blood‑glucose spikes, making them unsuitable for tight diabetic control. The salt level of 0.7 g is moderate and lower than many snack foods, but for hypertension it still contributes to daily sodium intake and should be limited.

Is Mantecadas suitable for vegan, keto, halal, or gluten‑free diets?

No. The product contains egg, milk and wheat flour, which exclude it from vegan, gluten‑free and many halal diets that prohibit animal‑derived ingredients. Its high carbohydrate content (47 g per 100 g) also makes it incompatible with keto eating plans.

Hacendado • 520 g

Mantecadas

Sugary Snacks

Product Insights

Mantecadas are a type of sweet, buttery cake typical of Spanish snack aisles, classified in the Sugary snacks and Biscuits & cakes groups. The product carries a Nutri-Score of D and is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), reflecting its high levels of added sugars (21 g per 100 g), total fat (26 g) and the presence of several food additives such as diphosphates, sodium carbonates, sorbitol, glycerin, calcium carbonate and sorbic acid. While it provides 5.3 g of protein and a moderate amount of saturated fat (4 g) and low salt (0.7 g), the overall nutritional profile is high in calories and sugar, and it contains common allergens (egg, gluten, milk).

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

high

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

high

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal449 kcal

Fat26 g

Saturated Fat4 g

Carbohydrates47 g

Sugars21 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average sugary snack, this mantecada contains less sugar (21 g vs 28.98 g) and less salt (0.7 g vs 1.98 g), but more total fat (26 g vs 17.65 g) while its saturated fat (4 g) remains below the average 7.8 g.

Ingredients

Harina de trigo (28%), aceite de girasol (21 %), azúcar, huevo, jarabe de glucosa, mantequilla, agua, humectante (sorbitol y glicerina), gasificantes (difosfato y carbonato de sodio, citrato monosódico), antiaglomerante (carbonato cálcico), almidón de maíz, aromas, sal, acidulante(acido láctico) y conservador (ácido sorbico)

84%

35%

Unlock What Your Food Doesn't Tell You

Scan this and millions of other food products to discover hidden positive & negative points, scores percentage, additives, allergens, and deeper product insights with the free NutrScan app.