ACADEMIA BARILLA, ORECCHIETTE, ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT
ACADEMIA BARILLA Orecchiette, an enriched macaroni product, scores 62/100 (Good) primarily due to its **enrichment with key micronutrients** like iron and folate, and its protein content.
FoodScore: 62/100 (Good) for ACADEMIA BARILLA Orecchiette.
Provides 12.5g protein and 3.61g fiber per 100g, contributing to satiety.
Classified as NOVA 3 (processed), indicating it's not a whole food.
Contains 0g added sugar and 0mg sodium, which are positive attributes.
Pair with vegetables and lean protein to create a more balanced meal.
Scores +21 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
3.61g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
12.5g
25% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
Protein (12.5g)+8
Micronutrients (Iron, Folate, Riboflavin)+6
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What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 62
ACADEMIA BARILLA Orecchiette earns a FoodScore of 62/100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and its processed nature. The product receives bonuses for its protein content, providing 12.5g per 100g, which can contribute to satiety. It also benefits from 3.61g of fiber per 100g. A significant positive factor is the enrichment with micronutrients, specifically 18% DV for iron and 54% DV for folate per 100g, along with riboflavin. These are added back after processing, as indicated by ingredients like ferrous lactate and folic acid. However, as a NOVA 3 (processed) food, it incurs a penalty. While it contains 0g of added sugar and 0mg of sodium, which are favorable, it lacks the broader spectrum of nutrients found in whole-food alternatives like raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg paired with fruit. The primary ingredients, semolina and durum wheat flour, are refined grains.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in academia barilla, orecchiette, enriched macaroni product actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Red Blood Cell Formation
ACADEMIA BARILLA Orecchiette is an enriched macaroni product, meaning it has specific micronutrients added back after processing. It provides 18% of the Daily Value for iron and 54% of the Daily Value for folate per 100g. Iron is essential for the formation of red blood cells and oxygen transport throughout the body, while folate is crucial for cell division and DNA synthesis. Including this product can help individuals meet their daily requirements for these important nutrients, particularly for those who may have insufficient intake from other sources.
Contributes to Satiety
With 12.5g of protein and 3.61g of fiber per 100g, ACADEMIA BARILLA Orecchiette can contribute to feelings of fullness. Protein is known to be the most satiating macronutrient, and fiber adds bulk to meals, both of which can help manage appetite. While not a primary source of fiber compared to whole grains or legumes, its contribution, combined with protein, can make a meal more satisfying, potentially aiding in portion control when part of a balanced dish.
Versatile Carbohydrate Source
As a pasta product, this orecchiette serves as a readily available source of carbohydrates, which are the body's primary fuel. It can be a convenient base for meals, providing energy for daily activities. Its neutral flavor and texture make it highly versatile, allowing it to be paired with a wide variety of vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats to create a nutritionally complete meal. This versatility can encourage the consumption of other nutrient-dense foods.
ACADEMIA BARILLA Orecchiette, an enriched macaroni product, scores 62/100 (Good) primarily due to its enrichment with key micronutrients like iron and folate, and its protein content.
How to eat it
Orecchiette is typically served as a main dish, often paired with sauces, vegetables, and proteins. A common portion size in the US is around 2 ounces dry, which expands significantly when cooked. It's a versatile base for many meals.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair ACADEMIA BARILLA Orecchiette with a generous serving of non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers.
Incorporate a lean protein source such as grilled chicken, fish, or legumes to create a more balanced meal that supports satiety.
Consider using a smaller portion of pasta and increasing the volume of vegetables and protein to reduce overall carbohydrate intake while maintaining fullness.
Choose sauces made with healthy fats, like olive oil-based pestos or tomato-based sauces, to avoid excessive saturated fat.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains wheat as a primary ingredient, making it unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or a wheat allergy. While it is an enriched product, it is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), meaning it has undergone significant processing. Consumers should be aware that while enrichment adds back certain nutrients, it does not fully replicate the nutritional profile of whole, unprocessed grains. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or problematic preservatives listed in the ingredient statement. Individuals monitoring their intake of refined grains may wish to consume this product in moderation and prioritize whole grain options when possible.
ACADEMIA BARILLA Orecchiette scores 62/100 (Good) on FoodScore. It provides beneficial protein and fiber, and is enriched with iron and folate. While it's a processed food, it can be part of a balanced diet when paired with vegetables and lean proteins. Its lack of added sugar and sodium are also positive attributes.
How does ACADEMIA BARILLA Orecchiette compare to other pasta brands?
Compared to other enriched pasta brands like Barilla or De Cecco, ACADEMIA BARILLA Orecchiette has a similar nutritional profile, offering comparable amounts of protein, fiber, and enrichment with B vitamins and iron. The primary differences often lie in the specific wheat varieties used and the shape, which doesn't significantly alter the nutritional content. All are typically NOVA 3 processed foods.
What is 'enriched macaroni product'?
An 'enriched macaroni product' means that certain nutrients lost during the processing of the wheat flour have been added back. In this product, the ingredients list shows enrichment with niacin, iron (ferrous lactate), thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid. This process helps to restore some of the micronutrient content, making it more nutritious than unenriched refined pasta.
What is a typical serving size for ACADEMIA BARILLA Orecchiette?
The declared serving size is 2 ounces (dry), which is approximately 56 grams. This amount provides about 200 calories, 7g of protein, and 2g of fiber. It's important to be mindful of serving sizes, as larger portions will increase calorie and carbohydrate intake. Consider a smaller portion as a side dish or part of a larger meal with more vegetables.
Can I eat this pasta if I'm trying to limit processed foods?
ACADEMIA BARILLA Orecchiette is classified as NOVA 3 (processed). If your goal is to strictly limit processed foods, you might opt for whole grains like brown rice pasta or quinoa. However, if you occasionally include processed foods, this pasta can fit into a diet focused on overall nutrient density, especially when combined with fresh, whole ingredients.