By Sainsbury's

Gherkins

Barcode 00286480

Scanned 12 times by Nomi users

Yes — Gherkins is ultra-processed.

Classified as ultra-processed because it contains potassium metabisulphite (a preservative sulphite), which is an industrial additive used to extend shelf life.

Ingredients

No ultra-processed markers

OK

gherkins (gherkins, water, salt, preservative: potassium metabisulphite (sulphites))
OK

water

Essential base ingredient for countless foods and beverages; serves as solvent and texture modifier.
OK

sugar

Granulated sugar derived from sugarcane or sugar beets; a basic, single-ingredient sweetener.
OK

spirit vinegar

A clear, distilled vinegar typically made from fermented alcohol (ethanol) and used for pickling, flavoring, and preservation.
OK

dried onions

Dehydrated onion flakes or powder used to impart onion flavour; essentially a preserved form of a basic vegetable.
OK

mustard seeds

Dried seeds of the mustard plant used whole or ground to flavor condiments, sauces, pickles, and spice blends.
OK

red bell peppers
OK

dill seeds

Small, aromatic seeds of the Anethum graveolens plant, offering a fresh, slightly bitter, aniselike taste; common in pickling, seasoning blends, and breads.
OK

salt

Common mineral compound (sodium chloride) used as a seasoning and preservative across cuisines.
OK

ginger powder

Ground dried ginger root, a common spice and flavoring. Not UPF as a basic spice/ingredient.
OK

cinnamon powder. allergy advice: for allergens
OK

see ingredients in bold. jar recycle lid recycle parl c

Common questions about Gherkins

Is Gherkins ultra-processed?

Yes — Gherkins by By Sainsbury's is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). Classified as ultra-processed because it contains potassium metabisulphite (a preservative sulphite), which is an industrial additive used to extend shelf life.

What does "ultra-processed" (UPF) mean?

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.

How can I check whether other foods are ultra-processed?

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.

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.