Yes — Mexican Rice & Beans is ultra-processed.
Classified as ultra-processed because the ingredient list contains yeast extract, which is an industrially processed flavor enhancer used in ready-to-eat foods. All other listed ingredients are minimally processed or basic culinary ingredients, but the presence of yeast extract makes the overall product UPF under the given rules.
Other ready meals Nomi has checked — these ones aren't ultra-processed.
Pad Thai Kit
Blue dragon
Not UPF
Ben's original mixed pepper rice
Ben's original
Not UPF
Sundried Tomato Tortelloni
Deliciously Ella
Not UPF
Sun blush Tomato And Basil
Merchant Gourmet
Not UPF
Firecracker
Tilda
Not UPF
Moroccan style Fruity Couscous
Marks & Spencer
Not UPF
Mozzarella roasted tomato and basil girasoli
Marks & Spencer
Not UPF
Pilau rice
Marks & Spencer
Not UPF
Ricotta & Spinach Ravioli
Marks & Spencer
Not UPF
Spinach ravioli
Sainsbury's,Plant Pioneers
Not UPF
Yes — Mexican Rice & Beans is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). Classified as ultra-processed because the ingredient list contains yeast extract, which is an industrially processed flavor enhancer used in ready-to-eat foods. All other listed ingredients are minimally processed or basic culinary ingredients, but the presence of yeast extract makes the overall product UPF under the given rules.
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.
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.
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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.