ANNIE'S HOMEGROWN FUN PASTA SHAPES WITH YUMMY CHEDDAR MACARONI & CHEESE
ANNIE'S HOMEGROWN FUN PASTA SHAPES WITH YUMMY CHEDDAR MACARONI & CHEESE scores 43/100 (Poor), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high sodium content.
FoodScore: 43/100 (Poor), indicating it is not a primary choice for a nutrient-dense diet.
Contains 4.3g of fiber per 100g, contributing positively to its nutritional profile.
A single serving provides 869.57mg of sodium, which is a significant amount.
Classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Best consumed occasionally and in smaller portions to manage sodium intake.
Scores +10 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
4.3g
15% of Daily Value
Protein
10.89g
22% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
869.57mg
38% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (4.3g)+4
Protein (10.9g)+6
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (6.5g)-7
Sodium (869.6mg)-4
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 43
ANNIE'S HOMEGROWN FUN PASTA SHAPES WITH YUMMY CHEDDAR MACARONI & CHEESE receives a FoodScore of 43 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty of -10 points. While the product does offer some nutritional benefits, such as 4.3g of fiber and 10.9g of protein per 100g, earning +4 and +6 points respectively, these are offset by other factors. The presence of 6.5g of saturated fat per 100g leads to a -7 point penalty. Furthermore, the high sodium content of 869.57mg per 100g results in a -4 point deduction. Micronutrients like calcium (10% DV) and Vitamin A (24% DV) contribute a modest +4 points. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this ANNIE'S HOMEGROWN product contains more added ingredients and a higher sodium level, typical of many convenience pasta dishes.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in annie's homegrown fun pasta shapes with yummy cheddar macaroni & cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Fiber
This product provides 4.3g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness. While not a primary source, it offers more fiber than many refined pasta dishes. Including foods with fiber can support overall gut function and regularity.
Contains Protein
With 10.9g of protein per 100g, ANNIE'S HOMEGROWN mac and cheese contributes to your daily protein needs. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and for the production of enzymes and hormones. While this product isn't a high-protein food, it can be part of a meal that provides adequate protein when combined with other protein sources.
Provides Calcium and Vitamin A
This product offers 10% DV for calcium and 24% DV for Vitamin A per 100g. Calcium is crucial for bone health and muscle function, while Vitamin A supports vision and immune function. These micronutrients are derived from ingredients like cheddar cheese and nonfat dry milk, contributing to the product's overall nutrient profile.
ANNIE'S HOMEGROWN FUN PASTA SHAPES WITH YUMMY CHEDDAR MACARONI & CHEESE scores 43/100 (Poor), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high sodium content.
How to eat it
ANNIE'S HOMEGROWN FUN PASTA SHAPES WITH YUMMY CHEDDAR MACARONI & CHEESE is typically consumed as a quick meal or side dish. It's often prepared by adding milk and butter, increasing its calorie and fat content. A common portion is the entire package, which should be considered when evaluating its nutritional impact.
To enhance the nutritional value, consider adding steamed vegetables like broccoli or peas to your serving.
Pair with a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or beans, to create a more balanced meal.
Be mindful of portion sizes; consuming only half a package can significantly reduce intake of sodium and saturated fat.
Opt for low-fat milk and less butter during preparation to reduce the overall fat content of the dish.
Consider this product as an occasional convenience food rather than a daily staple due to its ultra-processed nature and sodium content.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that warrant attention. The ingredient list includes organic wheat pasta, which contains wheat, and dairy ingredients such as butter, nonfat dry milk, and cheddar cheese, indicating it is not suitable for individuals with wheat or dairy allergies. The presence of potassium chloride and sodium phosphate are common food additives. While generally recognized as safe, individuals sensitive to food additives may wish to limit intake. The high sodium content of 869.57mg per 100g is a concern for individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet, including young children.
Is ANNIE'S HOMEGROWN FUN PASTA SHAPES WITH YUMMY CHEDDAR MACARONI & CHEESE healthy?
ANNIE'S HOMEGROWN FUN PASTA SHAPES WITH YUMMY CHEDDAR MACARONI & CHEESE scores 43/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it provides some fiber and protein, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high sodium content mean it is not a primary choice for a nutrient-dense diet. It's best considered an occasional convenience food.
How does ANNIE'S HOMEGROWN mac and cheese compare to other brands?
Compared to a generic boxed macaroni and cheese, ANNIE'S HOMEGROWN often features organic ingredients like organic wheat pasta. However, its nutritional profile, particularly in terms of sodium and saturated fat, is comparable to many conventional brands like Kraft Macaroni & Cheese. Always check the nutrition label for specific comparisons.
What does 'organic' mean for this product?
The 'organic' label on ingredients like organic wheat pasta and organic coconut oil means these ingredients were produced according to USDA organic standards. This typically involves farming practices that avoid synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and GMOs. However, an organic label does not automatically mean a product is less processed or lower in sodium or fat.
What is a reasonable portion size for this mac and cheese?
The serving size is listed as 1 package, which contains 391.3 calories, 10.89g of total fat, and 869.57mg of sodium per 100g. To manage intake of sodium and saturated fat, consider consuming half a package and supplementing with a side salad or vegetables to increase satiety and nutrient density.
Can I make this mac and cheese more nutritious?
Yes, you can enhance the nutritional value by adding fresh or frozen vegetables such as peas, carrots, or spinach during preparation. You can also mix in a lean protein source like canned tuna or cooked chicken breast to create a more complete meal. Using skim milk and less butter can also reduce fat content.