Asda

Basil pesto

Barcode 5063089316061

No — Basil pesto is not ultra-processed.

The ingredient list is valid and consists mainly of basic culinary ingredients: herbs (basil, parsley), vegetable oils (rapeseed, sunflower, extra virgin olive oil), pecorino cheese, pine kernels, lemon juice, garlic, salt. Lactic acid (acidity regulator) and ascorbic acid (antioxidant) are simple additives commonly used in minimally processed foods and do not by themselves make this an ultra-processed product according to the given criteria. There are no industrial sweeteners, refined industrial syrups, emulsifiers, flavourings, or other industrial formulations listed.

Ingredients

2 ultra-processed markers

OK

basil (18%)
OK

rapeseed oil

A basic culinary oil pressed from rapeseeds (Brassica napus). Used for frying, baking, and dressings. Neutral flavor.
OK

sunflower oil

A neutral-tasting culinary oil pressed from sunflower seeds, rich in unsaturated fats and commonly used for frying and dressings.
OK

pecorino cheese (milk) (16%)
OK

parsley

A fresh green herb used to flavor and garnish dishes; commonly added chopped leaves.
OK

pine nuts

Pine nuts are edible seeds of pine trees, commonly used as a cooking ingredient in dishes like pesto, salads, and baked goods. They have a rich, buttery flavor and a delicate crunch.
OK

extra virgin olive oil (6.5%)
OK

sicilian lemon juice (contains sulphites)
OK

garlic purée

Pureed garlic, often used as a flavoring base.
OK

salt

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

lactic acid

A naturally occurring organic acid used as a acidity regulator and preservative in foods; often added as E270 to adjust pH and inhibit microbial growth.
UPF

basil extract

An extract derived from basil leaves, used as a flavoring or aroma enhancer; it is produced through processing and concentration.
OK

ascorbic acid

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

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Common questions about Basil pesto

Is Basil pesto ultra-processed?

No — Basil pesto by Asda is not ultra-processed, so it is not a UPF (ultra-processed food). The ingredient list is valid and consists mainly of basic culinary ingredients: herbs (basil, parsley), vegetable oils (rapeseed, sunflower, extra virgin olive oil), pecorino cheese, pine kernels, lemon juice, garlic, salt. Lactic acid (acidity regulator) and ascorbic acid (antioxidant) are simple additives commonly used in minimally processed foods and do not by themselves make this an ultra-processed product according to the given criteria. There are no industrial sweeteners, refined industrial syrups, emulsifiers, flavourings, or other industrial formulations listed.

Which ingredients in Basil pesto are ultra-processed?

Nomi flags 2 ingredients in Basil pesto as ultra-processed markers: lactic acid, basil extract. 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.