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

The product is labeled NOVA 4 because it combines several industrially created components: fully hydrogenated palm‑kernel oil, milk protein isolates, sweeteners (erythritol and maltitols), emulsifier soy lecithin, citric acid (E330), shellac (E904) as a glazing agent, and lecithin (E322). These ingredients are manufactured through multiple processing steps and are not found in minimally processed foods, which places the snack in the ultra‑processed category.

How does the high saturated fat content in this product affect a heart‑healthy diet?

With 33 g of saturated fat per 100 g, the snack far exceeds recommended limits for saturated fat intake, which can raise LDL cholesterol and increase cardiovascular risk when consumed regularly. Individuals following a heart‑healthy diet should limit or avoid this product and opt for snacks with lower saturated fat levels.

Is the milk protein in Protein Crispy Balls a concern for people with lactose intolerance?

Yes. The ingredient list includes milk protein, which may contain residual lactose and can trigger symptoms in people with lactose intolerance or a milk allergy. Those sensitive to dairy should avoid this product or choose a dairy‑free alternative.

Bratra

Protein Crispy Balls

Sugary Snacks

Product Insights

Protein Crispy Balls are a protein‑enriched chocolate candy categorized under Sugary snacks and Sweets. They carry a Nutri‑Score of D and belong to NOVA group 4, reflecting a very high content of fat (34 g), saturated fat (33 g) and protein (24 g) per 100 g. While the product contains very little sugar (0.8 g) and salt (0.18 g), its ultra‑processed nature is evident from the numerous additives such as erythritol, maltitols, soy lecithin, citric acid, shellac and emulsifiers, which together mitigate any nutritional advantages.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

high

Saturated Fat

high

Sugars

low

Salt

low

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g/ml

Energy Kcal424 kcal

Fat34 g

Saturated Fat33 g

Carbohydrates34 g

Sugars0.8 g

Comparative Analysis

Compared with average sweets, Protein Crispy Balls contain dramatically less sugar (0.8 g vs 53.44 g) but far more fat (34 g vs 10.52 g), saturated fat (33 g vs 6.99 g) and protein (24 g vs 2.9 g), resulting in a higher energy content (544 kcal vs 373 kcal).

Ingredients

Protein glaze (fully hydrogenated vegetable fat (palm-kernel), milk protein, sweeteners (erythritol, maltitols), emulsifier (soy lecithin), flavouring protein crisp (rice flour, pea protein, oat fiber), strawberry powder 1% [strawberries, sugar, acidity regulator (citric acid), natural strawberry flavouring with other natural flavourings], flavouring with strawberry taste, glazing agent (shellac), stabiliser (qum arabic). May contain: peanuts, nuts, sesame and other cereals containing gluten. | Sithallation meat nothinnamaak met suiker en reteteffen Ingredianten: eiwit omhulsel [geheel gehard A

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.