Yes — Thai inspired red curry is ultra-processed.
Not a great choice for everyday.
This Thai-inspired red curry spice paste is classified as ultra-processed because it contains modified maize starch, an industrially modified thickener. The product also contains paprika extract used as a colour, which is an extracted additive. These ingredients indicate industrial formulation beyond simple culinary processing. Acetic acid and citric acid are basic acidity regulators and do not independently determine the classification.
Other sauces, condiments & spreads Nomi has checked — these ones aren't ultra-processed.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil Houmous
Waitrose
Not UPF
Tomato Ketchup
Heinz
Not UPF
Tomato Ketchup
Heinz
Not UPF
Runny Honey imp
Rowse
Not UPF
Soy Sauce
Kikkoman
Not UPF
Nutritional Yeast Flakes
Engevita
Not UPF
Tomato Ketchup BIO
Heinz
Not UPF
Crunchy Peanut Butter
Meridian, Meridian Foods
Not UPF
Soy Sauce
Kikkoman
Not UPF
Salsa di Soia
Kikkoman
Not UPF
Yes — Thai inspired red curry by Sainsbury's is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). This Thai-inspired red curry spice paste is classified as ultra-processed because it contains modified maize starch, an industrially modified thickener. The product also contains paprika extract used as a colour, which is an extracted additive. These ingredients indicate industrial formulation beyond simple culinary processing. Acetic acid and citric acid are basic acidity regulators and do not independently determine the classification.
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.
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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.