Yes — Tikka masala paste is ultra-processed.
The product is classified as ultra-processed because it contains the additives acidity regulator (citric acid) and yeast extract, which are pre-identified UPF ingredients. Other ingredients are mostly culinary ingredients and spices, but the presence of these specific additives makes the overall product UPF according to the given criteria.
Other sauces, condiments & spreads Nomi has checked — these ones aren't ultra-processed.
Golden Roasted Peanut Butter Drizzle imp
Whole Earth
Not UPF
Rose Harissa Paste
Belazu
Not UPF
Wholegrain mustard
Tesco
Not UPF
Crunchy Peanut Butter
Aldi
Not UPF
Tomato & Basil
Loyd Grossman
Not UPF
All Natural Avocado Oil Mayo
Dr Wills
Not UPF
Tomato Ketchup
Heinz
Not UPF
Sojasauce
Kikkoman
Not UPF
Nutritional Yeast Flakes
Engevita
Not UPF
Yes — Tikka masala paste by Waitrose is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). The product is classified as ultra-processed because it contains the additives acidity regulator (citric acid) and yeast extract, which are pre-identified UPF ingredients. Other ingredients are mostly culinary ingredients and spices, but the presence of these specific additives makes the overall product UPF according to the given criteria.
Nomi flags 2 ingredients in Tikka masala paste as ultra-processed markers: onion juice concentrate, yeast 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.
This page was shared from Nomi, the free app that tells you instantly whether any food is ultra-processed.
Free download · No subscription needed to start scanning


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.