Yes — Rye bread is ultra-processed.
The product is classified as ultra-processed because it contains industrial preservatives: calcium propionate and sorbic acid. These are additives used to extend shelf life and are characteristic of ultra-processed foods in the NOVA system.
Similar products that aren't ultra-processed — swap and keep the flavour.
Other breads & wraps Nomi has checked — these ones aren't ultra-processed.
Hovis white
Hovis
Not UPF
Slow-roast tomato sourdough
Co-op
Not UPF
Classic Torinesi Breadsticks
Crosta Mollica
Not UPF
Sourdough
Waitrose
Not UPF
Sainsbury's San Francisco Style Sourdough
Sainsbury's
Not UPF
Spelt Sourdough Bread
Waitrose
Not UPF
Sensational Soya & Linseed Bread
Vogel’s
Not UPF
Rye Seed Bread
Schneider Brot
Not UPF
In Store Baked Sourdough Bloomer
Tesco
Not UPF
6 PETIT PAINS
TESCO
Not UPF
Yes — Rye bread by bakers choice is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). The product is classified as ultra-processed because it contains industrial preservatives: calcium propionate and sorbic acid. These are additives used to extend shelf life and are characteristic of ultra-processed foods in the NOVA system.
Nomi has reviewed similar products that are not ultra-processed, including Biona rye bread by Biona. See the healthier alternatives above for details.
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.