BANZA FOUR CHEESE THE PIZZA MADE FROM CHICKPEAS, FOUR CHEESE
BANZA FOUR CHEESE THE PIZZA MADE FROM CHICKPEAS, FOUR CHEESE scores 46/100 (Decent), primarily due to its NOVA 4 classification as an ultra-processed food and its saturated fat content.
This BANZA pizza scores 46/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
It provides 3.2g of fiber and 10.97g of protein per 100g serving.
A significant concern is the 6.45g of saturated fat per 100g.
Compared to generic dairy pizza, this product offers a similar nutritional profile but with a chickpea-based crust.
Consider this product as an occasional meal, balancing it with other nutrient-dense foods.
Scores +13 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
3.2g
11% of Daily Value
Protein
10.97g
22% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
405.81mg
18% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.2g)+3
Protein (11.0g)+6
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron)+4
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What holds it back
Saturated fat (6.5g)-6
Sodium (405.8mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 46
BANZA FOUR CHEESE THE PIZZA MADE FROM CHICKPEAS, FOUR CHEESE achieves a FoodScore of 46 out of 100, categorized as 'Decent'. This score reflects a balance of positive and negative nutritional attributes. On the positive side, the product receives bonus points for its protein content, providing 10.97g per 100g, and its fiber content, with 3.2g per 100g. It also contributes to micronutrient intake with 11% DV for calcium and 11% DV for iron. However, several factors lead to penalties. The most significant penalty comes from its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which subtracts 10 points. Additionally, the product contains 6.45g of saturated fat per 100g, leading to a 6-point penalty. The sodium content of 405.81mg per 100g also incurs a minor penalty. While the use of chickpeas in the crust contributes to the fiber and protein, the overall formulation, including multiple cheeses and various additives like xanthan gum and sunflower lecithin, places it in the ultra-processed category. Compared to a generic dairy pizza, this BANZA product offers a similar caloric and fat profile but with a notable increase in fiber due to the chickpea base.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in banza four cheese the pizza made from chickpeas, four cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Dietary Fiber
This BANZA pizza provides 3.2g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain regularity and support a healthy gut microbiome. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet can also help with satiety, potentially aiding in weight management by making you feel fuller for longer. The fiber in this product primarily comes from the chickpea base of the crust.
Good Source of Protein
With 10.97g of protein per 100g, this pizza can be a contributing source of protein in a meal. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as for the production of enzymes and hormones. Adequate protein intake is also important for satiety, helping to manage hunger throughout the day. The protein in this product is derived from both the chickpeas in the crust and the various cheeses in the toppings.
Contains Essential Minerals
This product contributes to your intake of certain essential minerals, providing 11% DV for calcium and 11% DV for iron per 100g. Calcium is crucial for bone health and plays a role in nerve function and muscle contraction. Iron is vital for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. While not a primary source, these contributions can help meet daily requirements, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet.
BANZA FOUR CHEESE THE PIZZA MADE FROM CHICKPEAS, FOUR CHEESE scores 46/100 (Decent), primarily due to its NOVA 4 classification as an ultra-processed food and its saturated fat content.
How to eat it
Pizza is commonly consumed as a quick meal or snack in the US. This BANZA pizza, with its chickpea crust, offers an alternative to traditional wheat-based pizzas. A typical serving is half a pizza, which can be a substantial portion for one person.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair your pizza with a large side salad rich in diverse vegetables.
Consider adding extra lean protein like grilled chicken or vegetables to your pizza before baking to boost nutrient density.
Be mindful of portion sizes; consuming half a pizza as a single serving helps manage calorie and saturated fat intake.
For a balanced meal, combine this pizza with a fruit or vegetable serving to increase micronutrient and fiber intake.
Things to keep in mind
This BANZA pizza is classified as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which means it has undergone significant industrial processing and contains ingredients like tapioca, sunflower lecithin, and xanthan gum. While these ingredients are generally recognized as safe, a diet high in ultra-processed foods is associated with poorer health outcomes. Individuals with allergies should note that this product contains milk due to the various cheeses. The sodium content of 405.81mg per 100g is moderate, but those monitoring their sodium intake for blood pressure management should be aware and consider it in their daily allowance. There are no artificial sweeteners or colors listed, which may be a consideration for some consumers.
Is BANZA FOUR CHEESE THE PIZZA MADE FROM CHICKPEAS healthy?
This BANZA pizza scores 46/100, categorized as 'Decent'. It offers protein and fiber from its chickpea base and cheese, along with some calcium and iron. However, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its saturated fat content are factors to consider. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with other nutrient-dense foods.
How does BANZA pizza compare to a traditional frozen pizza?
Compared to a traditional frozen pizza like a DiGiorno Four Cheese pizza, this BANZA product offers a similar caloric and fat profile but typically provides more fiber and protein due to the chickpea crust. The specific micronutrient content can vary, but BANZA aims to offer a gluten-free alternative with added plant-based protein. Both are generally considered ultra-processed.
What is 'date powder' in the ingredient list?
Date powder is a natural sweetener made from dried and ground dates. In this product, it is used in the crust and sauce. While it is a natural sugar source, it still contributes to the overall sugar content of the product, though this specific SKU declares 0g of added sugar per 100g, indicating its use is minimal or balanced by other ingredients.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pizza?
The declared serving size is 0.5 pizza. Adhering to this portion will help manage your intake of calories, saturated fat, and sodium. For a more balanced meal, consider pairing this half-pizza serving with a large salad or additional vegetables to increase fiber and micronutrient intake without significantly increasing calories.
Is this BANZA pizza suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, the crust of this BANZA pizza is made from chickpeas, not wheat, making it a suitable option for individuals following a gluten-free diet. The ingredient list does not include any gluten-containing grains. However, always check the label for specific gluten-free certifications if you have a severe allergy or sensitivity.