AHOLD THIN SPAGHETTI ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT scores 62/100 (Good), primarily due to its contribution of essential micronutrients like iron and folate, alongside a notable protein content.
FoodScore: 62/100 (Good) for AHOLD THIN SPAGHETTI.
Provides 12.5g of protein per 100g serving.
Contains 0g of added sugar and 0mg of sodium.
This product is a NOVA 3 (processed) food.
Offers 54% DV of Folate and 18% DV of Iron per 100g serving.
Scores +15 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 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
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
Protein (12.5g)+8
Micronutrients (Iron, Folate, Riboflavin)+6
−
What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 62
AHOLD THIN SPAGHETTI ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT achieves a FoodScore of 62/100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score is primarily driven by its positive nutrient contributions. The product receives a significant bonus for its protein content, providing 12.5g per 100g, which is a substantial amount for a grain product. Additionally, it is fortified with several key micronutrients, notably iron (3.21mg, 18% DV) and folate (54% DV), along with riboflavin, which contribute positively to its score. The presence of semolina as the primary ingredient indicates a refined grain product. While it contains 3.61g of fiber per 100g, which earns a small bonus, it does not meet the criteria for a whole-grain product. The main penalty applied to this AHOLD product is due to its classification as a NOVA 3 processed food. Compared to a generic whole-grain spaghetti, this enriched macaroni product would typically have less fiber and potentially a higher glycemic impact, though its fortification helps to offset some nutritional gaps.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in ahold thin spaghetti enriched macaroni product actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Red Blood Cell Formation
This product is a good source of iron, providing 18% of the Daily Value per 100g. Iron is an essential mineral vital for the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to all parts of the body. Including iron-fortified foods like AHOLD THIN SPAGHETTI can help prevent iron deficiency, which can lead to fatigue and weakness. It also contains ferrous sulfate, a common form of iron used in fortification.
Contributes to Fetal Development and Cell Growth
AHOLD THIN SPAGHETTI is significantly fortified with folate, offering 54% of the Daily Value per 100g. Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is crucial for DNA synthesis and repair, and plays a key role in cell division and growth. Adequate folate intake is especially important for women of childbearing age to prevent neural tube defects in infants. This product can be a convenient way to increase dietary folate intake.
Provides Essential B Vitamins for Energy Metabolism
This enriched macaroni product supplies several B vitamins, including thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, and niacin. These vitamins are integral to energy metabolism, helping the body convert food into usable energy. They support various cellular functions and nerve health. While not a primary source of all B vitamins, its fortification ensures a contribution to daily requirements, supporting overall physiological processes.
AHOLD THIN SPAGHETTI ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT scores 62/100 (Good), primarily due to its contribution of essential micronutrients like iron and folate, alongside a notable protein content.
How to eat it
Thin spaghetti is a versatile staple in many American diets, typically served as a main course with sauces, vegetables, and protein. A common portion size is 2 ounces (dry), which expands significantly when cooked. It's often consumed as part of a quick and satisfying meal.
Pair AHOLD THIN SPAGHETTI with lean protein sources like chicken breast or legumes to create a more balanced meal.
Increase the fiber content of your meal by adding a generous serving of non-starchy vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers to your pasta dishes.
Control portion sizes by measuring out the dry pasta; a 2-ounce serving is a good starting point for a single meal.
Opt for tomato-based sauces over cream-based ones to reduce saturated fat intake.
Consider using this spaghetti as a base for cold pasta salads, incorporating plenty of fresh vegetables and a light vinaigrette.
Things to keep in mind
This product is made from semolina, which is derived from wheat, and therefore contains gluten. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this product. The ingredient list does not declare common allergens like milk, soy, tree nuts, peanuts, or egg, but consumers with severe allergies should always verify cross-contamination risks with the manufacturer. As an enriched macaroni product, it is a refined grain, which means it may have a higher glycemic index compared to whole-grain alternatives, potentially impacting blood sugar levels more rapidly for some individuals, such as those managing diabetes. However, it does not contain artificial colors, artificial sweeteners, or common preservatives that often raise concerns.
AHOLD THIN SPAGHETTI ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT scores 62/100, indicating it is a 'Good' choice. It provides valuable micronutrients like iron and folate, and a good amount of protein for a grain. However, as a refined grain, it lacks the higher fiber content of whole-grain options.
How does AHOLD THIN SPAGHETTI compare to Barilla Whole Grain Thin Spaghetti?
Compared to a whole-grain option like Barilla Whole Grain Thin Spaghetti, AHOLD THIN SPAGHETTI ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT will have less dietary fiber. While AHOLD is fortified with iron and folate, whole-grain pasta naturally offers a broader spectrum of nutrients and more fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health and satiety.
What is semolina?
Semolina is a coarse, purified wheat middling of durum wheat, primarily used in making pasta. It is a refined grain product, meaning the bran and germ have been removed, which also removes some fiber and nutrients, though this product is enriched with B vitamins and iron.
What is a typical serving size for this spaghetti?
A typical serving size for AHOLD THIN SPAGHETTI is 2 ounces (dry), which yields about 1 cup cooked. This portion provides approximately 200 calories, 7g of protein, and 2g of fiber, making it a reasonable component of a meal.
Can I eat this spaghetti if I am trying to lose weight?
Yes, you can include AHOLD THIN SPAGHETTI in a weight management plan. Focus on portion control (e.g., sticking to the 2-ounce serving size) and pair it with plenty of vegetables and lean protein to increase satiety and nutrient density, helping you feel full longer.
Does this product contain any artificial ingredients?
The ingredient list for AHOLD THIN SPAGHETTI ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT does not list any artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners. The vitamins and iron added for enrichment are standard fortification ingredients, such as thiamin mononitrate and ferrous sulfate.