ACADEMIA BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, RIGATONI
ACADEMIA BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, RIGATONI scores 62/100 (Good) on FoodScore, primarily driven by its notable protein and micronutrient content from enrichment, despite being a processed food.
FoodScore: 62/100 (Good) for ACADEMIA BARILLA Rigatoni.
Provides 12.5g of protein per 100g serving.
Contains 0g of added sugar and 0mg of sodium.
NOVA class 3 indicates this is a processed food.
A 2-ounce serving is a common portion size for pasta dishes.
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 ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, RIGATONI achieves a FoodScore of 62/100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and its classification as a processed food. The product receives significant bonuses for its protein content, providing 12.5g per 100g, which contributes positively to satiety and muscle maintenance. Additionally, the enrichment process adds valuable micronutrients; specifically, it provides 18% DV for iron and 54% DV for folate per 100g, along with riboflavin. These additions are a direct result of ingredients like ferrous lactate and folic acid listed in the ingredient statement. However, as a NOVA class 3 food, it incurs a penalty for being processed. While it contains 3.61g of fiber per 100g, which is a positive, it does not reach the threshold for a 'high fiber' claim. Compared to whole-food alternatives such as raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit, this pasta offers a different nutritional profile, providing a substantial source of carbohydrates and enriched vitamins, but lacking the broader spectrum of naturally occurring micronutrients and fiber found in unprocessed foods.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in academia barilla enriched macaroni product, rigatoni actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Energy Production and Red Blood Cell Health
This ACADEMIA BARILLA macaroni product is enriched with several B vitamins and iron, which are crucial for energy metabolism and oxygen transport in the body. Specifically, the inclusion of thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, and niacin supports the conversion of food into usable energy. The iron content, at 18% DV per 100g, is important for preventing iron deficiency anemia and ensuring adequate oxygen delivery to tissues. Incorporating this pasta into a balanced meal can help meet daily requirements for these essential nutrients, especially for individuals who may have higher needs or limited dietary sources.
Contributes to Fetal Development and Cell Growth
The significant amount of folate, providing 54% DV per 100g, is a key benefit of this enriched macaroni product. Folate is vital for DNA synthesis and repair, and critical for cell division and growth. This is particularly important for individuals who are pregnant or may become pregnant, as adequate folate intake helps prevent neural tube defects in developing fetuses. Including foods like this enriched pasta can be a practical way to boost folate intake as part of a varied diet, supporting overall cellular health.
Source of Plant-Based Protein
With 12.5g of protein per 100g, this pasta contributes meaningfully to daily protein intake, especially for those following a plant-based diet. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting immune function. While not a complete protein on its own, when combined with other plant-based protein sources like legumes or vegetables, it can form a complete protein meal. This makes it a versatile base for many nutritious dishes, helping individuals meet their protein needs.
ACADEMIA BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, RIGATONI scores 62/100 (Good) on FoodScore, primarily driven by its notable protein and micronutrient content from enrichment, despite being a processed food.
How to eat it
Pasta is a staple in many US diets, commonly served as a main course with sauces, vegetables, and protein. A typical portion is often around 2 ounces dry, which expands significantly when cooked. Be mindful of portion sizes and what you pair it with to create a balanced meal.
Pair with lean protein sources like chicken, fish, or beans to enhance satiety and nutritional completeness.
Incorporate a generous amount of non-starchy vegetables into your pasta dishes to boost fiber and micronutrient intake.
Use a light, vegetable-based sauce instead of heavy cream or cheese sauces to manage calorie and fat content.
Consider using this pasta as a base for cold pasta salads, adding plenty of fresh vegetables and a vinaigrette dressing.
Measure dry pasta portions to ensure you are consuming a serving size that aligns with your dietary goals.
Things to keep in mind
This ACADEMIA BARILLA macaroni product contains wheat, which is a common allergen. Individuals with celiac disease or a wheat allergy should avoid this product. The enrichment process adds several B vitamins and iron, which are generally safe and beneficial. However, consumers should be aware that this is a processed food (NOVA class 3), meaning it has undergone industrial processing. While it does not contain added sugars, high sodium, or unhealthy fats, its nutritional value is enhanced through fortification rather than being inherently nutrient-dense like whole grains. There are no specific additives in the ingredient list, such as artificial sweeteners or colors, that typically raise significant health concerns for the general population.
Is ACADEMIA BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, RIGATONI healthy?
ACADEMIA BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, RIGATONI scores 62/100, which is considered 'Good'. It provides a notable amount of protein, iron, and folate due to enrichment. While it is a processed food, it can be part of a balanced diet when paired with vegetables and lean proteins, and consumed in appropriate portions.
How does ACADEMIA BARILLA Rigatoni compare to other pasta brands?
Compared to other enriched pasta brands like Barilla or De Cecco, ACADEMIA BARILLA Rigatoni offers a similar nutritional profile, providing enriched B vitamins and iron. The key differences often lie in the specific durum wheat varieties used and the texture after cooking. All enriched pastas in this category will generally be NOVA class 3 processed foods.
What is 'semolina' in the ingredient list?
Semolina is a coarse, purified wheat middling of durum wheat, primarily used in making pasta. It is a key ingredient that gives pasta its characteristic texture and structure. In this product, semolina is the primary carbohydrate source.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pasta?
A standard serving size for dry pasta is 2 ounces, which yields about 1 cup of cooked pasta. This portion provides approximately 200 calories, 7g of protein, and 2g of fiber. Adjust your portion based on your individual caloric and nutritional needs, especially if you are combining it with other calorie-dense ingredients.
Can I eat this pasta if I am trying to reduce processed foods?
This pasta is classified as NOVA class 3, indicating it is a processed food. If your goal is to significantly reduce processed foods, you might opt for whole grain alternatives or unprocessed carbohydrate sources like quinoa, brown rice, or sweet potatoes. However, in moderation, this enriched pasta can still fit into a diet that emphasizes whole foods.