Blue Dragon

Chow Mein Stir Fry Sauce

Barcode 5010338200060

Scanned 23 times by Nomi users

Yes — Chow Mein Stir Fry Sauce is ultra-processed.

The product is classified as ultra-processed (UPF) because the ingredient list includes several industrial additives and formulations. In particular, it contains colour (plain caramel), yeast extract, and modified maize starch, all of which are pre-identified UPF ingredients. These are industrially processed additives used for colouring, flavour enhancement, and texture modification, respectively. Their presence means the product must be classified as UPF according to the NOVA-based criteria.

Ingredients

4 ultra-processed markers

OK

water

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

sugar

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

dark soy sauce (7%) [water
OK

salt

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

Barley Malt Extract

Barley malt extract is a sweetener made from malted barley grains.
OK

defatted soya bean flakes
UPF

plain caramel color

A food coloring produced by heating carbohydrates (often corn or sugar) with acids or alkalis to form a caramel color. Common in beverages and snacks.
UPF

yeast extract

A flavor-enhancing extract produced from yeast cells, rich in amino acids and natural glutamates, commonly used to augment savory flavors.
OK

spirit vinegar

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

roasted wheat]
OK

ginger purée (4.5%)
OK

spring onion (4.5%)
UPF

modified maize starch

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

garlic purée (3.5%)
OK

onion purée (3%)
OK

toasted sesame oil

A flavor oil pressed from sesame seeds and toasted to develop rich nutty aroma; commonly used in Asian cuisine.
OK

red chilli paste (1%) [red chilli peppers
OK

acetic acid

A simple organic acid used as a acidity regulator in food and beverages.
OK

yeast extract paste
OK

acidity regulator (citric acid). allergy advice: for allergens
OK

including cereals containing gluten
OK

see ingredients in bold. may also contain peanuts and nuts. no artificial flavours or preservatives. suitable for vegetarians and vegans

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Common questions about Chow Mein Stir Fry Sauce

Is Chow Mein Stir Fry Sauce ultra-processed?

Yes — Chow Mein Stir Fry Sauce by Blue Dragon is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). The product is classified as ultra-processed (UPF) because the ingredient list includes several industrial additives and formulations. In particular, it contains colour (plain caramel), yeast extract, and modified maize starch, all of which are pre-identified UPF ingredients. These are industrially processed additives used for colouring, flavour enhancement, and texture modification, respectively. Their presence means the product must be classified as UPF according to the NOVA-based criteria.

Which ingredients in Chow Mein Stir Fry Sauce are ultra-processed?

Nomi flags 4 ingredients in Chow Mein Stir Fry Sauce as ultra-processed markers: Barley Malt Extract, plain caramel color, yeast extract, modified maize starch. 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.