By Sainsbury's

Wasabi peas

Barcode 01854930

Scanned 19 times by Nomi users

Yes — Wasabi peas is ultra-processed.

The product is classified as ultra-processed (UPF) because it contains several industrial ingredients and additives. Specifically, it includes modified maize starch and palm oil, which are pre-identified UPF ingredients. It also contains maltodextrin (in the wasabi powder), an industrially processed sugar, and added colours (curcumin and chlorophylls). These formulations and additives go beyond basic culinary ingredients and therefore place the product in the ultra-processed category according to NOVA.

Ingredients

3 ultra-processed markers

OK

peas (69%)
UPF

modified maize starch

A processed starch, often used as a thickener or binding agent in foods; may be treated to modify properties.
OK

sugar

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

palm oil

A widely used edible oil pressed from the fruit of oil palms; a basic culinary oil but highly processed in many commercial products.
OK

maize starch

Fine white powder obtained from corn; used as a thickener in sauces and soups.
OK

salt

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

wasabi powder (maltodextrin, wasabi)
UPF

curcumin

Bright yellow pigment derived from turmeric (Curcuma longa) used as a natural food colorant.
OK

chlorophylls

Swap it for something less processed

See all Crisps, Snacks & Nuts →

Other crisps, snacks & nuts Nomi has checked — these ones aren't ultra-processed.

Common questions about Wasabi peas

Is Wasabi peas ultra-processed?

Yes — Wasabi peas by By Sainsbury's is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). The product is classified as ultra-processed (UPF) because it contains several industrial ingredients and additives. Specifically, it includes modified maize starch and palm oil, which are pre-identified UPF ingredients. It also contains maltodextrin (in the wasabi powder), an industrially processed sugar, and added colours (curcumin and chlorophylls). These formulations and additives go beyond basic culinary ingredients and therefore place the product in the ultra-processed category according to NOVA.

Which ingredients in Wasabi peas are ultra-processed?

Nomi flags 3 ingredients in Wasabi peas as ultra-processed markers: modified maize starch, palm oil, curcumin. 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.