BARILLA VEGGIE ELBOWS earns a FoodScore of 66/100 (Good), primarily driven by its notable protein and micronutrient content, despite being a processed food.
This product scores 66/100 (Good) on the FoodScore scale.
It provides 12.5g of protein and 3.61g of fiber per 100g serving.
The product is classified as NOVA class 3 (processed), incurring a penalty.
BARILLA VEGGIE ELBOWS offers a convenient source of Vitamin A, with 793% DV per 100g.
Consider pairing with whole foods to enhance overall meal nutritional density.
Scores +25 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
36.07mg
2% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
Protein (12.5g)+8
Micronutrients (Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Vitamin A, Riboflavin)+10
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What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 66
BARILLA VEGGIE ELBOWS achieved a FoodScore of 66/100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and its processed nature. The product received significant bonuses for its protein content, providing 12.5g per 100g, and for several key micronutrients. Specifically, it contributes 18% DV for iron, 14% DV for magnesium, and an exceptionally high 793% DV for Vitamin A, largely due to the inclusion of carrot puree and butternut squash puree. These vegetable purees are a notable addition for a pasta product. However, as a NOVA class 3 processed food, it incurs a 5-point penalty. While it contains no added sugar and is low in sodium (36.07mg per 100g), its overall nutritional profile, when compared to whole-food alternatives like raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg paired with fruit, shows a lower density of diverse micronutrients and fiber. The product's primary ingredients, semolina and durum wheat flour, form the base, with the vegetable purees contributing to the micronutrient boost.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in barilla, veggie elbows actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Vitamin A Intake
BARILLA VEGGIE ELBOWS is an excellent source of Vitamin A, delivering 793% of the Daily Value per 100g. This is primarily due to the addition of carrot puree and butternut squash puree in its formulation. Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting proper cell growth and differentiation. Incorporating this pasta can help individuals meet their daily Vitamin A requirements, especially if their diet lacks other rich sources of this nutrient.
Contributes to Protein Needs
With 12.5g of protein per 100g, BARILLA VEGGIE ELBOWS can contribute meaningfully to daily protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, enzyme production, and overall bodily function. While not as high in protein as lean meats or legumes, this pasta offers a plant-based protein component that can be part of a balanced meal, particularly when combined with other protein-rich foods to create a more complete amino acid profile.
Source of Essential Minerals
This pasta provides several essential minerals, including 18% DV for iron and 14% DV for magnesium per 100g. Iron is vital for oxygen transport in the blood and preventing anemia, while magnesium plays a role in over 300 enzymatic reactions, including muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and blood pressure regulation. Including BARILLA VEGGIE ELBOWS in meals can help support the intake of these important minerals.
BARILLA VEGGIE ELBOWS earns a FoodScore of 66/100 (Good), primarily driven by its notable protein and micronutrient content, despite being a processed food.
How to eat it
BARILLA VEGGIE ELBOWS is typically consumed as a main dish component, often paired with sauces, vegetables, and protein sources. A common serving size is 2 ounces (dry), which expands significantly when cooked. It's a versatile pantry staple for quick meals, but its nutritional impact depends heavily on what it's served with.
Pair with lean protein sources like chicken, fish, or legumes to create a more balanced meal with higher satiety.
Increase fiber and micronutrient intake by adding a generous portion of non-starchy vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers to your pasta dish.
Opt for homemade or low-sodium sauces to control added sugar and sodium content, enhancing the overall nutritional value.
Mind your portion sizes; while nutritious, pasta is calorie-dense, so a 2-ounce dry serving is a good starting point for a single meal.
Things to keep in mind
BARILLA VEGGIE ELBOWS contains wheat as a primary ingredient, making it unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or a wheat allergy. The ingredient list is relatively straightforward, without common additives like artificial colors, flavors, or high-fructose corn syrup. The use of lemon juice concentrate in the vegetable purees is for preservation and flavor, and is generally not a concern for most consumers. There are no specific warnings for interactions or particular populations beyond those with wheat sensitivities. Overall, for individuals without wheat allergies, this product presents no unusual or significant cautions based on its ingredient profile.
BARILLA VEGGIE ELBOWS can be a part of a healthy diet. It provides a good source of Vitamin A (793% DV), iron (18% DV), and protein (12.5g) per 100g. However, it is a processed food (NOVA class 3) and should be balanced with whole, unprocessed foods. Its overall healthfulness depends on how it's prepared and what it's served with.
How does BARILLA VEGGIE ELBOWS compare to regular pasta?
BARILLA VEGGIE ELBOWS offers a nutritional advantage over traditional white pasta due to the inclusion of carrot puree and butternut squash puree. This boosts its Vitamin A content significantly. While it has similar protein and fiber to some whole wheat pastas, it generally provides more micronutrients than standard refined pasta. Compared to a brand like Ronzoni Smart Taste, which also incorporates vegetable purees, the nutritional profiles can be quite similar.
What is the role of 'lemon juice concentrate' in this product?
The lemon juice concentrate listed in the ingredients for the carrot and butternut squash purees serves primarily as a natural preservative. It helps maintain the freshness and color of the vegetable purees. Additionally, it can contribute a subtle flavor note that balances the sweetness of the vegetables.
What is a recommended portion size for BARILLA VEGGIE ELBOWS?
A typical serving size for BARILLA VEGGIE ELBOWS, as indicated on the package, is 2 ounces dry. When cooked, this yields a larger portion. It's important to measure dry pasta to manage calorie intake and ensure a balanced meal, especially if you are monitoring your carbohydrate consumption.
Can BARILLA VEGGIE ELBOWS be part of a vegetarian or vegan diet?
Yes, BARILLA VEGGIE ELBOWS is suitable for both vegetarian and vegan diets. All its ingredients, including semolina, durum wheat flour, and vegetable purees, are plant-based. It contains no animal products or by-products, making it a versatile option for those following these dietary patterns.