ACADEMIA BARILLA, PENNE, ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT
ACADEMIA BARILLA Penne, an enriched macaroni product, scores 62/100 (Good) on FoodScore, primarily due to its significant protein and micronutrient content, despite being a processed food.
ACADEMIA BARILLA Penne has a FoodScore of 62/100, indicating a good nutritional profile.
A serving provides 12.5g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
This product is fortified with 54% DV of Folate and 18% DV of Iron per 100g.
Classified as NOVA 3 (processed), it offers less whole food benefits than raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg.
Portion control is important, as 2 ONZ is a common serving size.
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 Penne achieves a FoodScore of 62/100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score reflects its nutritional contributions, particularly in protein and certain micronutrients. The product receives bonus points for its protein content, providing 12.5g per 100g, which is a notable amount for a pasta product. Additionally, it is fortified with key micronutrients such as iron (3.21mg, 18% DV) and folate (54% DV), along with riboflavin, contributing positively to its score. The ingredient list highlights semolina (wheat) and durum wheat flour as primary components, which are then enriched. However, as a NOVA 3 classified processed food, it incurs a penalty. While it contains no added sugar, saturated fat, or sodium, which are positive aspects, its processed nature means it doesn't offer the same broad spectrum of nutrients or fiber as whole-food alternatives like raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg paired with fruit.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in academia barilla, penne, enriched macaroni product actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Satiety
ACADEMIA BARILLA Penne provides 12.5g of protein per 100g. This protein content can contribute to muscle maintenance and repair, especially when consumed as part of a balanced meal. Protein also plays a role in satiety, helping individuals feel fuller for longer, which can be beneficial for managing overall calorie intake. Including this pasta with other protein sources like lean meats, legumes, or vegetables can further enhance its nutritional impact.
Contributes to Red Blood Cell Formation
This enriched macaroni product is a source of iron, providing 3.21mg (18% DV) per 100g. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for the formation of red blood cells and the transport of oxygen throughout the body. Adequate iron intake is important for preventing iron deficiency. The fortification of ACADEMIA BARILLA Penne with iron makes it a convenient way to contribute to daily iron requirements, particularly for individuals who may struggle to meet these needs through other dietary sources.
Important for Cell Growth and Development
ACADEMIA BARILLA Penne is fortified with folate, supplying 54% DV per 100g. Folate is a B vitamin vital for cell growth and development, and it plays a critical role in DNA synthesis and repair. It is especially important for individuals of childbearing age due to its role in preventing certain birth defects. Including folate-rich foods like this enriched pasta can help ensure adequate intake of this essential nutrient.
ACADEMIA BARILLA Penne, an enriched macaroni product, scores 62/100 (Good) on FoodScore, primarily due to its significant protein and micronutrient content, despite being a processed food.
How to eat it
Penne pasta is a versatile staple in many US diets, typically consumed as part of a main meal. A common serving size is 2 ONZ (dry), which expands significantly when cooked. It's often paired with sauces, vegetables, and protein sources.
Pair ACADEMIA BARILLA Penne with lean protein sources like chicken, fish, or legumes to create a more balanced meal.
Incorporate a generous amount of non-starchy vegetables into your pasta dishes to boost fiber and micronutrient intake.
Be mindful of portion sizes; a 2 ONZ dry serving is a good starting point to manage calorie intake.
Choose tomato-based sauces over cream-based ones to reduce saturated fat content when preparing your pasta.
Things to keep in mind
ACADEMIA BARILLA Penne is an enriched macaroni product, meaning it has undergone processing and has had certain nutrients added back. The primary ingredients are semolina (wheat) and durum wheat flour, indicating it contains wheat, a common allergen. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this product. While it is fortified with several B vitamins and iron, its NOVA 3 classification means it is a processed food. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or problematic preservatives listed in the ingredients. Consumers should be aware of potential cross-contamination if they have severe allergies, though the label does not specify this.
ACADEMIA BARILLA Penne scores 62/100 (Good) on FoodScore. It provides a good source of protein (12.5g per 100g) and is fortified with important micronutrients like folate (54% DV) and iron (18% DV). While it is a processed food, it can be part of a balanced diet when paired with vegetables and lean proteins.
How does ACADEMIA BARILLA Penne compare to other pasta brands?
Compared to many standard enriched pasta brands like Barilla or De Cecco, ACADEMIA BARILLA Penne has a similar nutritional profile, offering comparable protein and fortified micronutrients. The key difference often lies in the specific milling and durum wheat quality, which can affect texture and cooking performance rather than core nutritional value.
What is 'enriched macaroni product' in the ingredient list?
An 'enriched macaroni product' means that certain nutrients lost during the processing of the wheat flour have been added back. In this product, the enrichment includes niacin, iron (ferrous lactate), thiamine, riboflavin, and folic acid, as listed in the ingredients.
What is a typical portion size for ACADEMIA BARILLA Penne?
The declared serving size for ACADEMIA BARILLA Penne is 2 ONZ (dry), which is a common portion for pasta. This amount, once cooked, yields a larger volume. It's important to measure dry pasta to ensure accurate portion control, especially when managing calorie intake.
Can I eat ACADEMIA BARILLA Penne if I am trying to increase my fiber intake?
While ACADEMIA BARILLA Penne contains 3.61g of fiber per 100g, which contributes to daily intake, it is not considered a high-fiber food. To significantly increase fiber, consider pairing it with high-fiber vegetables like broccoli or spinach, or opting for whole wheat pasta alternatives.