Sambal Oelek 200g

Image: Open Food Facts (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Common questions

Is Sambal Oelek 200g healthy?

Sambal Oelek 200g scores 65/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This product contains ground chillies, salt, water, and vinegar, which are simple and recognizable ingredients.

How processed is Sambal Oelek 200g?

Sambal Oelek 200g is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Sambal Oelek 200g's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Preservative E211 is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Sambal Oelek 200g

Lucullus
65 Fair

Analysis updated July 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 0
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Asian Food Group
Category Condiments
Summary

This product contains ground chillies, salt, water, and vinegar, which are simple and recognizable ingredients. However, the presence of sodium benzoate as a preservative raises concerns due to its potential health risks, such as forming benzene when combined with vitamin C. The product is moderately processed, which limits its score despite the relatively clean ingredient list.

Key ingredients 6

Ground chillies
Neutral

Ground chillies are a natural ingredient providing flavor and heat. They are minimally processed and retain their natural capsaicin content. However, they do not offer significant nutritional benefits beyond their flavor profile.

Risks

Excessive consumption may cause digestive discomfort or irritation.

Benefits

Capsaicin in chillies may have metabolism-boosting properties and can add flavor without added calories.

Salt
Neutral

Salt is used as a seasoning and preservative in many foods. It is a refined product without additional minerals. While essential for bodily functions, excessive intake can lead to health issues.

Risks

High sodium intake is linked to increased blood pressure and cardiovascular risk.

Benefits

Essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function in the body.

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Water
Neutral

Water is used as a solvent and to adjust the consistency of the product. It is a neutral ingredient with no direct nutritional impact. It helps in blending and distributing other ingredients evenly.

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Vinegar
Neutral

Vinegar is used for flavor and as a preservative. It is a fermented product that can add acidity to foods. While it has some antimicrobial properties, it does not provide significant nutritional benefits.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to enamel erosion or digestive discomfort.

Benefits

May aid in digestion and has antimicrobial properties.

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E260
Neutral

E260 is acetic acid, commonly found in vinegar, used for acidity regulation. It is a naturally occurring compound in fermented products. It is generally recognized as safe when used in food.

Preservative E211
Bad

E211, or sodium benzoate, is a preservative used to inhibit microbial growth. It is a synthetic additive that can react with vitamin C to form benzene, a potential carcinogen. Its use is controversial due to potential health concerns.

Risks

May form benzene when combined with vitamin C, posing a cancer risk.

Benefits

Extends shelf life by preventing microbial growth.

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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