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

The product is deemed ultra‑processed because its formulation relies on refined ingredients and multiple food‑industry additives. It contains emulsifier lecithin (E322i), colour additive E150d, raising agents ammonium carbonates (E503) and sodium carbonates (E500), sulphite‑based flour‑treatment agent (metabisulphite, E223), as well as added vitamins and flavourings.

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

With 20 g of sugars per 100 g, the biscuit can cause noticeable blood‑glucose spikes, making it a less suitable choice for people managing diabetes. The 0.67 g of salt per 100 g is moderate but can contribute to overall sodium intake, which is a concern for those with hypertension if consumed in large quantities.

Based on the ingredients, is TostaRica suitable for strict diets like Vegan, Keto, Halal, or Gluten‑Free?

No. The product contains wheat flour (gluten) and whey powder (milk), disqualifying it from vegan and gluten‑free diets. Its high carbohydrate level (73 g per 100 g) and added sugars make it unsuitable for a keto regimen, and the presence of dairy‑derived vitamin D and possible animal‑based additives may conflict with strict halal requirements.

Cuétara

TostaRica

Sugary Snacks

Product Insights

TostaRica is a sweet biscuit snack from Cuétara, classified in the “Sugary snacks” group of the PNNS dietary families. It carries a Nutri‑Score of D and is labeled as ultra‑processed (NOVA 4), reflecting its high added sugars (20 g per 100 g), moderate salt (0.67 g per 100 g) and the presence of several additives such as lecithin, colour E150d and carbonates. While it provides 7.5 g of protein and 2.9 g of fiber per 100 g, its energy density (463 kcal) and the inclusion of gluten, milk and sulfites make it unsuitable for several restricted diets.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

low

Sugars

high

Salt

moderate

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g/ml

Energy Kcal463 kcal

Fat15 g

Saturated Fat1.2 g

Carbohydrates73 g

Sugars20 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average sweet‑snack, TostaRica contains less sugar (20 g vs 28.98 g), less total fat (15 g vs 17.65 g) and markedly less saturated fat (1.2 g vs 7.8 g), while its salt level (0.67 g) is also below the category average of 1.98 g, but it delivers slightly higher calories (463 kcal vs 418 kcal) due to its carbohydrate content.

Ingredients

Harina de TRIGO (68%), azúcar, aceite de girasol alto oleico (14%), suero LÁCTEO en polvo, jarabe de glucosa y fructosa, emulgente (lecitina), sal, gasificantes (carbonatos de amonio, carbonatos de sodio), colorante: E150d (contiene SULFITOS), aromas (contiene LECHE), vitaminas (A, D, tiamina (B1), riboflavina (B2), niacina (B3), B6), sales minerales (hierro elemental y carbonato de calcio), agente de tratamiento de la harina (METABISULFITO sódico). Puede contener MOSTAZA.

84%

35%

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