ACADEMIA BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, FARFALLE
ACADEMIA BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, FARFALLE scores 60/100 (Good) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **enrichment with key micronutrients** and a notable protein content, balanced against its classification as a processed food.
ACADEMIA BARILLA Farfalle has a FoodScore of 60/100, indicating a good nutritional profile for a processed grain product.
This product provides 12.5g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety and muscle maintenance.
As a NOVA class 3 (processed) food, it is less ideal than whole-food alternatives like raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg.
It contains 0g of added sugar and 0mg of sodium, aligning with recommendations for limiting these nutrients.
Pair with vegetables and lean protein to create a more balanced and nutrient-dense meal.
Scores +19 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, Riboflavin)+4
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What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 60
ACADEMIA BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, FARFALLE achieves a FoodScore of 60 out of 100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and its processed nature. The product receives positive points for its protein content, providing 12.5g per 100g, which is a significant contribution to daily intake. It also gains points for fiber, with 3.61g per 100g, and for specific micronutrients like iron (3.21mg, 18% DV) and riboflavin, which are added during the enrichment process. The inclusion of VITAMIN B3 (NIACIN), IRON (FERROUS LACTATE), and other B vitamins helps to fortify the nutritional value of the refined grains. However, as a NOVA class 3 processed food, it incurs a penalty, indicating it has undergone significant industrial processing. While it contains no added sugar or sodium, it lacks the broader spectrum of micronutrients and phytochemicals found in less processed, whole-food alternatives such as raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg paired with fruit.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in academia barilla enriched macaroni product, farfalle actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Satiety
ACADEMIA BARILLA Farfalle provides 12.5g of protein per 100g, which is a substantial amount for a pasta product. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, including muscle. Consuming adequate protein can also contribute to feelings of fullness and satiety, potentially helping with weight management by reducing overall calorie intake. Incorporating this pasta into meals with other protein sources can further enhance its benefits for muscle health and appetite control.
Contributes to Iron Intake
This enriched macaroni product is a source of iron, providing 3.21mg per 100g, which is 18% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport throughout the body and plays a vital role in energy production. Adequate iron intake is important for preventing iron-deficiency anemia, which can lead to fatigue and weakness. The enrichment process ensures that this essential micronutrient is present, making it a useful component of a balanced diet, especially for individuals who may struggle to meet their iron needs.
Provides B Vitamins for Energy Metabolism
ACADEMIA BARILLA Farfalle is enriched with several B vitamins, including VITAMIN B1 (THIAMINE MONONITRATE), VITAMIN B2 (RIBOFLAVIN), and VITAMIN B3 (NIACIN). These B vitamins are fundamental for energy metabolism, helping the body convert food into usable energy. They support various cellular functions and are important for nerve function and maintaining healthy skin. The inclusion of these vitamins helps to restore some of the nutrients lost during the milling of wheat into semolina and durum wheat flour.
ACADEMIA BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, FARFALLE scores 60/100 (Good) on FoodScore, primarily due to its enrichment with key micronutrients and a notable protein content, balanced against its classification as a processed food.
How to eat it
Pasta like ACADEMIA BARILLA Farfalle is a versatile staple in many US diets, commonly served as a main dish or side. A typical portion is around 2 ounces dry (56g), which expands significantly when cooked. It's often paired with sauces, vegetables, and proteins.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair this pasta with a variety of non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers.
Combine with lean protein sources such as chicken, fish, or legumes to create a more balanced meal that supports satiety.
Be mindful of portion sizes; a 2-ounce dry serving is a good starting point to manage calorie intake.
Opt for homemade sauces with fresh ingredients to control sodium and added sugar content, rather than relying solely on pre-made options.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains WHEAT as its primary ingredient, making it unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or a wheat allergy. While the enrichment process adds back some micronutrients, it is still a processed grain product (NOVA class 3). Consumers should be aware that highly processed foods, even those with beneficial nutrients, may not offer the same comprehensive nutritional benefits as whole, unprocessed foods. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives listed in the ingredients, which is a positive aspect for those looking to minimize intake of such additives. However, individuals with specific sensitivities to DURUM WHEAT FLOUR should exercise caution.
Is ACADEMIA BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, FARFALLE healthy?
ACADEMIA BARILLA Farfalle scores 60/100 (Good) on FoodScore. It provides 12.5g of protein and 3.61g of fiber per 100g, along with added iron and B vitamins. While it's a processed food, it can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation and paired with nutrient-dense ingredients like vegetables and lean proteins.
How does ACADEMIA BARILLA Farfalle compare to other pasta brands?
Compared to other enriched macaroni products like Barilla Classic Pasta, ACADEMIA BARILLA Farfalle has a similar nutritional profile, offering comparable protein and fiber content. The key difference often lies in the specific enrichment blend and the quality of the wheat used. For a more significant nutritional boost, consider whole wheat pasta options from brands like Banza or De Cecco, which typically offer higher fiber and a broader range of micronutrients.
What is the role of 'SEMOLINA (WHEAT)' in this product?
SEMOLINA (WHEAT) is a coarse, purified wheat middling of durum wheat, primarily used in making pasta. It's chosen for its high protein content and strong gluten, which gives pasta its characteristic firm texture when cooked. In this product, it's the main ingredient, providing the base for the pasta's structure and contributing to its protein content.
What is a recommended portion size for ACADEMIA BARILLA Farfalle?
The recommended serving size for ACADEMIA BARILLA Farfalle is 2 ounces dry (approximately 56g). This portion provides a reasonable amount of carbohydrates and protein for a meal component. It's important to measure dry pasta to accurately control calorie and nutrient intake, as cooked pasta volume can be misleading.
Can this pasta be part of a vegetarian or vegan diet?
Yes, ACADEMIA BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, FARFALLE is suitable for both vegetarian and vegan diets. Its ingredients, including semolina, durum wheat flour, and vitamins/minerals, are all plant-based. It contains no animal products or by-products, making it a versatile option for plant-based meal planning.