BARILLA, STELLINE, ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT scores 62/100 (Good), primarily driven by its **fortified micronutrient content** and **protein contribution**.
This BARILLA product achieves a FoodScore of 62/100, indicating a good nutritional profile.
A notable strength is its fortification, providing 54% DV of Folate and 18% DV of Iron per 100g.
It is classified as NOVA class 3 (processed), which incurs a penalty in the scoring.
With 0g added sugar and 0mg sodium per 100g, it avoids common pitfalls of many processed snacks.
Compared to whole-food alternatives, it offers less dietary fiber and a simpler nutrient profile.
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
+
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
BARILLA, STELLINE, ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT receives a FoodScore of 62 out of 100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score is positively influenced by several factors. The product provides 12.5g of protein per 100g, contributing a significant +8 bonus. Its fiber content of 3.6g per 100g also adds a +3 bonus. Furthermore, the fortification with essential micronutrients like iron (3.21mg, 18% DV) and folate (54% DV) provides a +6 bonus. The inclusion of ferrous sulfate as an iron source and folic acid for folate are key to these micronutrient contributions. The product contains 0g of added sugar and 0mg of sodium, avoiding common penalties. However, as a NOVA class 3 (processed) food, it incurs a -5 penalty. While it offers valuable nutrients, it lacks the broader spectrum of vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals found in whole-food alternatives such as raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg paired with fruit.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in barilla, stelline, enriched macaroni product actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Red Blood Cell Formation
This BARILLA pasta is an excellent source of folate, providing 54% of the Daily Value per 100g. Folate is a B vitamin crucial for DNA synthesis and the formation of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. Adequate folate intake is particularly important for individuals of childbearing age to help prevent neural tube defects. Incorporating fortified pasta can contribute to meeting daily folate needs, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet.
Contributes to Iron Intake
With 3.21mg of iron per 100g, supplying 18% of the Daily Value, this product helps in meeting daily iron requirements. Iron is an essential mineral vital for oxygen transport in the blood and muscle, and for energy metabolism. The iron in this enriched macaroni product can be a useful dietary component, particularly for individuals who may struggle to get enough iron from other sources, such as those following vegetarian diets.
Source of Protein for Muscle Maintenance
BARILLA Stelline provides 12.5g of protein per 100g, which is a substantial amount for a pasta product. Protein is fundamental for building and repairing tissues, including muscles, and plays a role in enzyme and hormone production. Including this pasta in meals can contribute to your daily protein intake, supporting satiety and muscle health, especially when combined with other protein-rich foods like lean meats, legumes, or dairy.
BARILLA, STELLINE, ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT scores 62/100 (Good), primarily driven by its fortified micronutrient content and protein contribution.
How to eat it
BARILLA Stelline is a small, star-shaped pasta commonly used in soups, broths, and light sauces. It cooks quickly and is often served as a comforting side dish or a component of a larger meal. Typical portions range from 1 to 2 ounces dry.
Pair with vegetable-rich broths and lean protein sources like chicken or lentils to create a more nutritionally complete meal.
Consider using a smaller portion of pasta and increasing the volume of vegetables in your dish to boost fiber and micronutrient intake.
Combine with a source of healthy fats, such as a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of cheese, to enhance nutrient absorption and satiety.
Use as a base for a cold pasta salad with plenty of chopped fresh vegetables and a light vinaigrette dressing.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains wheat as its primary ingredient, specifically semolina and durum flour, making it unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or a wheat allergy. While enriched, it does not contain whole grains, meaning it lacks some of the fiber and nutrients found in whole wheat pasta. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives listed in the ingredients. The product is also free from common allergens like milk, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, and eggs, based on the declared ingredient list. Overall, for individuals without wheat sensitivities, this product presents no unusual cautions.
BARILLA Stelline is a good source of carbohydrates, protein, iron, and folate, contributing to a balanced diet. Its FoodScore of 62/100 reflects its nutritional benefits, particularly its fortification. However, like all processed foods, it should be consumed as part of a varied diet that includes plenty of whole, unprocessed foods.
How does BARILLA Stelline compare to other pasta brands?
Compared to many other enriched macaroni products, BARILLA Stelline is nutritionally similar, offering comparable amounts of protein and fortified micronutrients. For example, brands like Ronzoni or Mueller's enriched pastas typically have similar macronutrient profiles. When comparing, always check the ingredient list for whole grains if that's a priority, as this BARILLA product is made from refined wheat.
What does 'enriched macaroni product' mean?
An 'enriched macaroni product' means that certain nutrients lost during the processing of the wheat flour have been added back. In this BARILLA product, the enrichment includes Niacin, Iron (Ferrous Sulfate), Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, and Folic Acid, which are important B vitamins and minerals.
What is a typical serving size for Stelline pasta?
A typical serving size for BARILLA Stelline is 2 ounces (dry), which is approximately 56 grams. This amount provides a reasonable portion of carbohydrates and protein. Adjust your serving size based on your individual caloric and nutritional needs, especially if combining with other calorie-dense ingredients.
Can I use Stelline in dishes other than soup?
Yes, while Stelline is traditionally used in soups, its small size makes it versatile. It can be used in cold pasta salads, as a side dish with light sauces, or even incorporated into casseroles. Its neutral flavor allows it to adapt to various culinary applications, offering a different texture than larger pasta shapes.