Sriracha Hot Chilli Sauce

Barcode 5020580016999

Scanned 142 times by Nomi users

Yes — Sriracha Hot Chilli Sauce is ultra-processed.

The product is classified as ultra-processed because it contains several industrial additives and formulations. Specifically: acidity regulator (acetic acid), thickener (modified starch, xanthan gum), and preservative (potassium sorbate) are pre-identified UPF ingredients. It also includes a flavour enhancer (yeast extract). These extracted/chemically modified additives go beyond basic culinary ingredients, so under NOVA this sauce is an ultra-processed food (UPF).

Ingredients

3 ultra-processed markers

OK

pickled red chilli 64% [chili
OK

salt

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

acidity regulator (acetic acid)

Acetic acid used as an acidity regulator and food additive.
OK

sugar

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

water

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

garlic

A bulbous aromatic spice used to impart savory flavor in cooking; can be used fresh, sautéed, roasted, or in powder form.
UPF

thickener (modified starch, xanthan gum)

A food-grade thickening agent composed of modified starch and xanthan gum, used to adjust viscosity in sauces, soups, and processed foods.
OK

acidity regulator (acetic acid, citric acid)
OK

flavour enhancer (yeast extract)
UPF

potassium sorbate

Potassium sorbate is a widely used food preservative that inhibits the growth of molds, yeast, and some bacteria to extend shelf life.
OK

colour (paprika oleoresin)

Healthier alternatives

Reviewed by Nomi

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Common questions about Sriracha Hot Chilli Sauce

Is Sriracha Hot Chilli Sauce ultra-processed?

Yes — Sriracha Hot Chilli Sauce 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 and formulations. Specifically: acidity regulator (acetic acid), thickener (modified starch, xanthan gum), and preservative (potassium sorbate) are pre-identified UPF ingredients. It also includes a flavour enhancer (yeast extract). These extracted/chemically modified additives go beyond basic culinary ingredients, so under NOVA this sauce is an ultra-processed food (UPF).

Which ingredients in Sriracha Hot Chilli Sauce are ultra-processed?

Nomi flags 3 ingredients in Sriracha Hot Chilli Sauce as ultra-processed markers: acidity regulator (acetic acid), thickener (modified starch, xanthan gum), potassium sorbate. See the full ingredient breakdown above for what each one is.

What are healthier alternatives to Sriracha Hot Chilli Sauce?

Nomi has reviewed similar products that are not ultra-processed, including Sriracha by dr. will’s, Smoked Sriracha by Eaten Alive. See the healthier alternatives above for details.

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.