Co-op

Smoky BBQ Sauce

Barcode 5000129359626

Yes — Smoky BBQ Sauce is ultra-processed.

The ingredient list is valid. The product is classified as ultra-processed (UPF) because it contains industrial additives and refined ingredients, specifically modified maize starch and flavouring, which are UPF by definition. It also includes dextrose (in smoked dextrose), an industrially refined sugar, further supporting UPF classification.

Ingredients

2 ultra-processed markers

OK

barbecue sauce. 470g e ingredients tomato purée (65%)
OK

sugar

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

molasses

A thick, dark syrup produced during sugar refining, rich in flavor and used in baking and cooking.
OK

spirit vinegar

A clear, distilled vinegar typically made from fermented alcohol (ethanol) and used for pickling, flavoring, and preservation.
UPF

modified maize starch

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

salt

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

smoked dextrose
UPF

flavouring

A generic additive used to impart or enhance flavor; can be synthetic or derived from natural sources.
OK

onion powder

Dried and ground onion used as a seasoning to impart onion flavor.
OK

garlic powder

Dried, ground garlic used as a convenient, concentrated form of garlic flavoring in cooking.
OK

black pepper

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

Common questions about Smoky BBQ Sauce

Is Smoky BBQ Sauce ultra-processed?

Yes — Smoky BBQ Sauce by Co-op is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). The ingredient list is valid. The product is classified as ultra-processed (UPF) because it contains industrial additives and refined ingredients, specifically modified maize starch and flavouring, which are UPF by definition. It also includes dextrose (in smoked dextrose), an industrially refined sugar, further supporting UPF classification.

Which ingredients in Smoky BBQ Sauce are ultra-processed?

Nomi flags 2 ingredients in Smoky BBQ Sauce as ultra-processed markers: modified maize starch, flavouring. 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.