Yes — Taco Mixed Beans is ultra-processed.
The product is classified as ultra-processed (UPF) because it contains several industrially processed additives and extracts. In particular, modified maize starch, yeast extract, black pepper extract, and colour (paprika extract) are all considered UPF ingredients according to NOVA-style criteria. These are industrial formulations used as thickeners, flavour enhancers, and colourings rather than basic culinary ingredients. Therefore, even though the product is largely made of beans and vegetables, the presence of these UPF additives makes the overall product UPF.
Similar products that aren't ultra-processed — swap and keep the flavour.
Other ready meals Nomi has checked — these ones aren't ultra-processed.
Organic baked beans
Not UPF
Chunky Mexican-style Chilli & Bean Soup
Marks & Spencer, M&S
Not UPF
Soup
Sainsbury's
Not UPF
rustic vegetable soup
Yorkshire provender
Not UPF
Spicy Tomato & Lentil Souper Soup
M&S Food
Not UPF
Carrot & Coriander
Tesco
Not UPF
Cream Of Tomato Soup
M&S
Not UPF
Hearty leek, potato & Cheddar
Yeo Valley
Not UPF
Tomato and three bean soup
Sainsbury’s, Be good to yourself
Not UPF
Cauliflower & Kale with Cheddar
Yorkshire provender
Not UPF
Yes — Taco Mixed Beans by Tesco is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). The product is classified as ultra-processed (UPF) because it contains several industrially processed additives and extracts. In particular, modified maize starch, yeast extract, black pepper extract, and colour (paprika extract) are all considered UPF ingredients according to NOVA-style criteria. These are industrial formulations used as thickeners, flavour enhancers, and colourings rather than basic culinary ingredients. Therefore, even though the product is largely made of beans and vegetables, the presence of these UPF additives makes the overall product UPF.
Nomi flags 6 ingredients in Taco Mixed Beans as ultra-processed markers: modified maize starch, yeast extract, black pepper extract, capsicum extract, nutmeg extract, colour (paprika extract). See the full ingredient breakdown above for what each one is.
Nomi has reviewed similar products that are not ultra-processed, including Mixed Bean Salad in Vinaigrette by Tesco, Mixed Beans by Lidl, Organic baked beans by mr organic. 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.
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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.