Yes — Cod katsu fishcakes is ultra-processed.
The product is classified as ultra-processed because it contains several UPF ingredients and additives. Specifically, modified tapioca starch and yeast extract are industrially processed additives used for texture and flavor enhancement, respectively, and are explicitly considered UPF. These ingredients go beyond basic culinary components, so under NOVA this product is an ultra-processed food.
Other fish & seafood Nomi has checked — these ones aren't ultra-processed.
Omega-3 Fish Fingers
Ocean Sea
Not UPF
fish fingers
Birds Eye
Not UPF
10 Breaded Cod Fish Fingers
The Fishmonger Aldi
Not UPF
Youngs Salt Pepper Basa Fillets 2pk
Youngs
Not UPF
Omega 3 Fish Fingers
Tesco
Not UPF
Fish Pie for 1
Charlie Bigham's
Not UPF
Haddock fish fingers
BirdsEye
Not UPF
Cod fillet fish fingers
By sainsbury's
Not UPF
Cod fillet fishcakes
Marks & Spencer
Not UPF
Omega 3 fish fingers
Tesco
Not UPF
Yes — Cod katsu fishcakes by Marks & Spencer is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). The product is classified as ultra-processed because it contains several UPF ingredients and additives. Specifically, modified tapioca starch and yeast extract are industrially processed additives used for texture and flavor enhancement, respectively, and are explicitly considered UPF. These ingredients go beyond basic culinary components, so under NOVA this product is an ultra-processed food.
Nomi flags 4 ingredients in Cod katsu fishcakes as ultra-processed markers: modified tapioca starch, yeast extract, paprika extract, black pepper extract. See the full ingredient breakdown above for what each one is.
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.