Shop Map Research Get the app
Pesto Genovese

Common questions

Is Pesto Genovese healthy?

Pesto Genovese scores 70/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This pesto contains beneficial ingredients like basil, extra virgin olive oil, and aged cheeses, which contribute to its nutritional value and flavor.

How processed is Pesto Genovese?

Pesto Genovese is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Pesto Genovese's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Basil, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Cow Milk count in its favor; Sunflower Oil, Sugar are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

You might also like

95
Organic Pesto Genovese
Central Market
$35.38
85
Pesto Genovese mit Pinienkernen (Bio)
PPURA
85
Pesto Genovese Chicken Breast
85
Pesto Alla Genovese
De Cecco

See more

Pesto Genovese

Sogno Toscano
70 Good

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

View on Amazon

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 8
Harmful ingredients 2
Category Condiments
Summary

This pesto contains beneficial ingredients like basil, extra virgin olive oil, and aged cheeses, which contribute to its nutritional value and flavor. However, the presence of sunflower oil, a seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids, and added sugar detracts from its healthiness. The product is moderately processed, which limits its score despite the inclusion of several high-quality ingredients.

Key ingredients 14

Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Very Good

High-quality monounsaturated fat rich in antioxidants that support heart health.

See more about Extra Virgin Olive Oil →
Basil
Good

Fresh green herb that provides essential vitamins, minerals, and natural antioxidants.

See more about Basil →
Cow Milk
Good

Traditional dairy base providing complete proteins and calcium.

Rennet
Good

Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.

See more about Rennet →
Cashews
Good

Nutrient-dense tree nut providing healthy fats, plant-based protein, and minerals.

See more about Cashews →
Pecorino
Good

Traditional sheep's milk cheese offering rich flavor, protein, and calcium.

Garlic
Good

Aromatics rich in beneficial sulfur compounds and antioxidants.

See more about Garlic →
Pine Nuts
Good

Traditional pesto ingredient providing healthy fats and essential nutrients.

See more about Pine Nuts →
Salt
Neutral

Standard culinary salt used for seasoning and flavor enhancement.

See more about Salt →
Lysozyme From Egg
Neutral

Natural enzyme derived from egg white, commonly used as a natural preservative in aged cheeses.

Potato Flakes
Neutral

Dried potato product used as a natural thickener and binder.

Glucono-delta-lactone
Neutral

Naturally occurring food acid used as an acidity regulator and leavening agent.

Sugar
Bad

Refined added sugar.

See more about Sugar →
Sunflower Oil
Very Bad

Processed seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can be pro-inflammatory when consumed in excess.

See more about Sunflower Oil →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

Get the full breakdown in the Scout appTake Scout shopping

Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.

Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play

More in Condiments