Deli Classic Macaroni Salad

Why Does This Score Ultra-Processed?

In our analysis, Deli Classic Macaroni Salad scores Ultra-Processed. That classification is shaped by ingredients commonly associated with ultra-processed foods:

• Corn-Based Sweeteners (High Fructose Corn Syrup): HFCS is a hallmark of ultra-processed foods.
• Modified Starches (Modified Corn Starch): Chemical modification is a hallmark of UPF.
• Chemical Preservatives (Potassium Sorbate And Sodium Benzoate Added To Protect Flavor): Synthetic preservatives are UPF indicators.
• Stabilizers & Gums (Xanthan Gum): Industrial stabilizers common in UPF.

Within Prepared Salads, this product is more processed than about 43% of the 1,234 products we've analyzed.

Processing classification reflects ingredient and additive analysis, not a judgment of any product's safety, quality, or healthfulness.

What These Ingredients Tell Us

We group Deli Classic Macaroni Salad's ingredients into ingredient categories and note how each relates to food processing. The notes below describe the category, not this specific product's formulation.

Natural PreservativesProcessing indicator

In this product: Macaroni (Durum Wheat Semolina, [Enriched With Iron {Ferrous Sulphate} And B Vitamins [Niacin, Thiamin Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid]]).

Natural sources but industrial application.

Sugars & Natural SweetenersProcessing indicator

In this product: Salad Dressing (Water, Soybean Oil, High Fructose Corn Syrup, Modified Food Starch, Vinegar, Egg Yolks, Salt, Mustard Flour, Citric Acid), Mayonnaise (Soybean Oil, Water, Egg Yolks, Vinegar, Sugar, Salt, Mustard Flour), Sweet Pickle Relish (Cucumbers, High Fructose Corn Syrup, Water, Vinegar, Salt, Modified Food Starch, Calcium Chloride, Sodium Benzoate [Preservatives], Natural Flavorings).

Natural sugars acceptable in moderation, excessive amounts indicate UPF.

Salt & SodiumProcessing indicator

In this product: Salt.

Basic preservative, but high amounts indicate processing.