In its September 11 issue, the magazine analyzed 43 daily products. Verdict: 81 % are classified as ultra-transformed. Among them, some compotes however intended for children.
When the compote falls into the trap of ultra-transformed products
But what do we call “ultra-transformed”? In the absence of an official scientific definition, the subject remains vague. 60 million consumers deplore this regulatory vacuum, believing that it maintains “a gray area” which delays any binding legislation. In its survey, the magazine retains products containing additives, aromas, glucose syrups, protein isolates or modified fibers, often from complex industrial processes. And draws attention to several everyday products, including these famous compotes, in yogurt or gourdes format, which fill many family fridges.
Clearly: if the compote may seem to be a mixed fruit, it sometimes hides a long list of ingredients that have nothing to do with a fresh apple.
Comparison of 60 million consumers: not all compotes are equal
60 million consumers passed several references to a sarrel. Result: some are doing well, while others already have ultra-transformation markers.
Among the compotes analyzed, some are distinguished by their ultra-transformation level. The apple compote Nature Andros (730 g) and the Pom’Potes organic Apple Maître (90 g) have no ultra-transformation marker, as is the apple-flamboise compote good taste, suitable from 4 months.
On the other hand, the Major Organic Apple Compote (100 g) has one to two markers, recalling that even organic stamped products can sometimes undergo notable industrial transformations.
Lighter or classic compotes: Which ones to choose?
Should we opt for lightened sugar compotes? The question is not so simple either. In many cases, remove the sugar forces manufacturers to select better fruits, since their taste can no longer be masked. Result: a version closer to homemade. But the survey recalls that certain so -called “light” recipes compensate by adding sweeteners or additives, not always desirable.
Another comparison shows, however, that “without added sugars” is doing well. Example: the sugar -free Andros compote added 99.9 % apples, against 94 % for the classic version. The sugar level goes from 16 g to 11 g, and above all, it only comes from the fruits themselves.
Beyond the figures, it is a learning of more raw, less sweet taste, which can help children turn to the whole fruit. Only downside: the price, 35 % higher.
The advice of a dietician to read the labels well
For Julie Boët, dietitian-nutritionist, useless, however, by choosing her compotes. The main thing is to read the label well (thereafter you will keep the brand in memory):
“Favor compotes without added sugars, a mention that guarantees the absence of sucrose, glucose-fructose syrup or other sweeteners. The ideal is that the sugar present only from the fruit themselves.”
It also invites us to flee the so -called “lightened” compotes which precisely contain artificial sweeteners, aromas or dyes. On the composition side, a good compote must contain at least 85 to 90 % of fruit and, if possible, keep a texture rich in fibers. Some brands like Andros Coeur de Fruits (85 % fruit) or Charles & Alice (99.8 %) stand out.
Finally, Julie Boët recalls an important limit: “Compote remains a transformed product, low in fiber and high glycemic index. The ideal is to associate it with a few almonds or a natural dairy, in order to slow down the absorption of sugar. ” And also to conclude on a good reminder: even the best compotes will never replace a crunched fruit with the full teeth.