Sainsbury's

Cajun seasoning

Barcode 00344036

Scanned 17 times by Nomi users

Yes — Cajun seasoning is ultra-processed.

This seasoning is classified as ultra-processed because it contains yeast extract (a flavor enhancer produced via industrial processing), an anti-caking agent (silicon dioxide), and a color additive (paprika extract). These extracted and industrially processed additives place the product in the UPF category under NOVA, even though many other ingredients are herbs and spices.

Ingredients

2 ultra-processed markers

OK

dried onion

Dried form of the onion bulb, used as a seasoning; flavor-concentrated and shelf-stable.
OK

red bell pepper
OK

smoked paprika (12%)
OK

salt

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

chilli powder (7)
OK

black pepper

A common spice made from dried peppercorns of the Piper nigrum plant, used to add pungent heat and aroma to dishes.
OK

cumin seeds

Flat, boat-shaped seeds from the cumin plant, offering a warm, earthy, citrusy aroma used in spice blends and cooking.
OK

caster sugar

Finely granulated white sugar used in baking.
UPF

yeast extract

A flavor-enhancing extract produced from yeast cells, rich in amino acids and natural glutamates, commonly used to augment savory flavors.
OK

dried garlic

Dehydrated garlic cloves ground or whole, used as a pungent seasoning with long shelf life.
OK

allspice

A dried berry spice with warm, clove-like flavor often used in spice blends, marinades, and baked goods.
OK

ginger

A pungent, aromatic rhizome used fresh or dried in cooking and beverages.
OK

chili flakes

Crushed dried chili peppers used to add heat and flavor to dishes; a common spice.
OK

white pepper

A spice ground from ripe peppercorns with the outer husk removed, used to impart mild heat and aroma to dishes.
OK

fennel seeds

Dried seeds of the Foeniculum vulgare plant, with a sweet, licorice-like flavor; used whole or ground in baking, cooking, and as a spice.
OK

coriander seed

Dried seeds of Coriandrum sativum, aromatic with warm, citrusy notes; commonly used whole or ground in many cuisines.
OK

anti-caking agent: silicon dioxide
OK

oregano

A dried aromatic herb used as a spice in cooking, with a warm, slightly bitter flavor.
OK

thyme

A small, woody perennial herb with fragrant leaves used to flavor dishes, soups, and stews.
OK

cumin

A warm, earthy spice from the seeds of the Cuminum cyminum plant, common in spice blends.
UPF

paprika extract

A concentrated pigment derived from paprika used as a colorant in foods.

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Common questions about Cajun seasoning

Is Cajun seasoning ultra-processed?

Yes — Cajun seasoning by Sainsbury's is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). This seasoning is classified as ultra-processed because it contains yeast extract (a flavor enhancer produced via industrial processing), an anti-caking agent (silicon dioxide), and a color additive (paprika extract). These extracted and industrially processed additives place the product in the UPF category under NOVA, even though many other ingredients are herbs and spices.

Which ingredients in Cajun seasoning are ultra-processed?

Nomi flags 2 ingredients in Cajun seasoning as ultra-processed markers: yeast extract, paprika extract. See the full ingredient breakdown above for what each one is.

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.