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Yes — Thick Udon Noodles is ultra-processed.
The ingredient list is valid. The product contains modified tapioca starch, which is a pre-identified ultra-processed ingredient according to NOVA. It also contains an acidity regulator (lactic acid), which is an additive typical of industrial formulations. Because at least one ingredient (modified tapioca starch) is ultra-processed, the whole product is classified as ultra-processed (UPF).
Similar products that aren't ultra-processed — swap and keep the flavour.
Other drinks Nomi has checked — these ones aren't ultra-processed.
Self raising flour
Sainsburys
Not UPF
So Simple Gluten Free Original Porridge
Quaker
Not UPF
Macaroni
Napolina
Not UPF
Rainbow Hoops
Asda
Not UPF
Cornflour
Victoria Bakery
Not UPF
Łazanki
Lubella
Not UPF
Spinach and Ricotta Tortelloni
Essential Waitrose, Waitrose
Not UPF
Corn Flakes
M&S
Not UPF
Wholewheat medium Noodles
Sainsbury's
Not UPF
Yes — Thick Udon Noodles by By Sainsbury's is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). The ingredient list is valid. The product contains modified tapioca starch, which is a pre-identified ultra-processed ingredient according to NOVA. It also contains an acidity regulator (lactic acid), which is an additive typical of industrial formulations. Because at least one ingredient (modified tapioca starch) is ultra-processed, the whole product is classified as ultra-processed (UPF).
Nomi flags one ingredient in Thick Udon Noodles as an ultra-processed marker: modified tapioca starch. See the full ingredient breakdown above for what each one is.
Nomi has reviewed similar products that are not ultra-processed, including Straight To Wok Udon Noodles by Tesco, Udon Noodles by Vitasia, Lidl, Yutaka Udon Noodles imp by Yutaka. See the healthier alternatives above for details.
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are industrial formulations made with ingredients and additives you wouldn't find in a home kitchen — such as emulsifiers, artificial flavourings, colourings and modified starches. The classification is based on the NOVA system used by researchers and dietitians worldwide.
Scan any barcode — or photograph the ingredients label — with the free Nomi app for iOS and Android. You'll get an instant ultra-processed verdict with every ingredient explained in plain English.
This page was shared from Nomi, the free app that tells you instantly whether any food is ultra-processed.
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Product information comes from public databases and Nomi's own analysis, and may contain errors. Always check the packaging. Ultra-processed classification is based on the NOVA food processing system.
