Waitrose

Lime Cordial

Barcode 5000169765715

Yes — Lime Cordial is ultra-processed.

The product is classified as ultra-processed because it contains several industrial additives: 'flavouring' (an industrial flavour additive), the artificial sweetener 'sucralose', and preservatives (potassium sorbate, sodium metabisulphite). These ingredients go beyond basic culinary processing and fit NOVA criteria for ultra-processed foods.

Ingredients

5 ultra-processed markers

OK

water

Essential base ingredient for countless foods and beverages; serves as solvent and texture modifier.
OK

lime juice from concentrate (30%)
UPF

citric acid

A sour-tasting organic acid used as an acidulant and preservative in foods. Commonly added in small amounts to adjust acidity.
UPF

flavouring

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

preservatives (potassium sorbate, sodium metabisulphite)

Common preservatives used to inhibit microbial growth and oxidation in foods and beverages.
OK

ascorbic acid

Vitamin C; antioxidant used to prevent oxidation and preserve color and freshness in foods; a common food additive and nutrient.
UPF

sodium citrate

A basic acidity regulator used to adjust pH and act as an emulsifier or buffering agent in foods.
UPF

sucralose

A synthetic artificial sweetener used to sweeten foods and beverages; extremely sweet, often used in low-calorie products.

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Common questions about Lime Cordial

Is Lime Cordial ultra-processed?

Yes — Lime Cordial by Waitrose is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). The product is classified as ultra-processed because it contains several industrial additives: 'flavouring' (an industrial flavour additive), the artificial sweetener 'sucralose', and preservatives (potassium sorbate, sodium metabisulphite). These ingredients go beyond basic culinary processing and fit NOVA criteria for ultra-processed foods.

Which ingredients in Lime Cordial are ultra-processed?

Nomi flags 5 ingredients in Lime Cordial as ultra-processed markers: citric acid, flavouring, preservatives (potassium sorbate, sodium metabisulphite), sodium citrate, sucralose. 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.