BARILLA, VEGETABLE MARINARA WHOLE GRAIN FUSILLI PASTA
BARILLA, VEGETABLE MARINARA WHOLE GRAIN FUSILLI PASTA scores 51/100 (Decent) due to its **whole grain content** and inclusion of vegetables, balanced against its NOVA 3 classification.
This BARILLA product has a FoodScore of 51/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
A strength is its fiber content at 4.31g per 100g, contributing to digestive health.
The product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), indicating it contains multiple processed ingredients.
Compared to whole-food alternatives like raw almonds, this offers less protein and more carbohydrates.
Consider this as a convenient meal component, mindful of its sodium content of 278.04mg per 100g.
Scores +10 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
4.31g
15% of Daily Value
Protein
3.92g
8% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
278.04mg
12% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (4.3g)+4
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
−
What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 51
BARILLA, VEGETABLE MARINARA WHOLE GRAIN FUSILLI PASTA achieves a FoodScore of 51/100, categorized as 'Decent'. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and its processed nature. The product receives a bonus of +4 for its fiber content, providing 4.31g per 100g, which is a notable contribution. Additionally, it gains +2 for micronutrients, specifically its Vitamin A content at 33% DV per 100g, primarily from the included vegetables like carrots and bell peppers. However, a penalty of -5 is applied because it is classified as NOVA 3, indicating it is a processed food with multiple ingredients such as natural flavor and tapioca starch. While the product uses 'whole grain fusilli pasta' as a primary ingredient, it also contains semolina and durum wheat flour, which are refined. It contains 0g of added sugar, aligning with a positive dietary choice. Compared to a baseline of whole-food alternatives like raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit, this BARILLA product offers less protein and healthy fats, and more carbohydrates, positioning it as a different type of dietary component.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in barilla, vegetable marinara whole grain fusilli pasta actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Digestive Health
This BARILLA product provides 4.31g of fiber per 100g, which is a significant amount for a single serving. Dietary fiber is essential for maintaining regular bowel movements and can contribute to overall gut health. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet can help prevent constipation and support a healthy digestive system. The whole grain fusilli pasta is a primary source of this fiber, alongside the various vegetables in the marinara sauce.
Source of Vitamin A
The vegetable marinara sauce in this product contributes 33% DV of Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is a crucial nutrient known for its role in maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. The presence of ingredients like carrots, red and yellow bell peppers, and tomatoes naturally boosts the Vitamin A content, making this a convenient way to consume this important micronutrient as part of a meal.
Convenient Vegetable Inclusion
This product offers a convenient way to incorporate several vegetables into a meal, including zucchini, carrots, bell peppers, and eggplant. Consuming a variety of vegetables is important for obtaining a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and beneficial plant compounds. For individuals with limited time for meal preparation, this BARILLA pasta provides a ready-to-eat option that includes a mix of vegetables without extensive cooking.
BARILLA, VEGETABLE MARINARA WHOLE GRAIN FUSILLI PASTA scores 51/100 (Decent) due to its whole grain content and inclusion of vegetables, balanced against its NOVA 3 classification.
How to eat it
This BARILLA, VEGETABLE MARINARA WHOLE GRAIN FUSILLI PASTA is typically consumed as a quick meal or snack. Its convenience makes it suitable for lunch or a light dinner. A common portion size is the full 9 oz package, which provides a substantial amount of carbohydrates and vegetables.
To enhance the protein content, consider pairing this pasta with a lean protein source such as grilled chicken breast or chickpeas.
Increase the overall vegetable intake by adding fresh spinach or a side salad to your meal with this pasta.
Be mindful of the serving size; while convenient, consuming the entire package contributes 278.04mg of sodium per 100g, so consider balancing with low-sodium foods throughout the day.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains wheat as a declared allergen, which is important for individuals with celiac disease or wheat sensitivities to note. While the ingredient list includes various vegetables, it also contains 'natural flavor', which is a broad term that can encompass a range of substances. The product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), meaning it has undergone significant processing and contains multiple ingredients beyond whole foods. For most healthy individuals, this product does not present specific unique cautions beyond general dietary considerations for processed foods. Individuals monitoring sodium intake should be aware of the 278.04mg per 100g.
Is BARILLA VEGETABLE MARINARA WHOLE GRAIN FUSILLI PASTA healthy?
This BARILLA product scores 51/100, indicating it is a 'Decent' choice. It offers beneficial fiber (4.31g/100g) and Vitamin A (33% DV/100g) from its whole grains and vegetables. However, it is a processed food (NOVA 3), which means it's not a whole food. Its healthfulness depends on how it fits into your overall dietary pattern.
How does BARILLA VEGETABLE MARINARA WHOLE GRAIN FUSILLI PASTA compare to other ready-to-eat pasta meals?
Compared to some other ready-to-eat pasta meals, such as certain frozen pasta dinners, this BARILLA product stands out for its whole grain content and inclusion of multiple vegetables. It also contains 0g of added sugar, which is a positive. Always check the nutrition labels of competing brands like Lean Cuisine or Healthy Choice for specific comparisons on fiber, sodium, and added sugars.
What does 'natural flavor' in the ingredient list mean?
The term 'natural flavor' refers to flavorings derived from natural sources like spices, fruits, vegetables, or meat. These are added to enhance the taste of the product. While derived from natural sources, they are still processed ingredients and contribute to the product's NOVA 3 classification. The specific components of natural flavor are not disclosed on the label.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pasta?
The declared serving size is 9 oz (the entire package). Per 100g, it contains 129.02 calories, 3.92g protein, and 278.04mg sodium. If consuming the whole package, you would multiply these values by approximately 2.55 (since 9 oz is about 255g). Consider your individual calorie and nutrient needs when determining if the full package is appropriate for your meal.
Can this be a good option for someone looking to increase vegetable intake?
Yes, this product can contribute to your vegetable intake. It contains a mix of vegetables like zucchini, carrots, red and yellow bell peppers, and eggplant within the marinara sauce. While not a substitute for fresh, whole vegetables, it offers a convenient way to consume some vegetable variety as part of a meal, especially for those with busy schedules.