BARILLA, WHOLE GRAIN PASTA, ANGEL HAIR scores an 84/100 (Very good) due to its significant fiber and protein content, making it a strong choice for a staple carbohydrate.
This BARILLA pasta achieves a FoodScore of 84/100, indicating a very good nutritional profile.
It provides 10.7g of fiber and 12.5g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
Categorized as NOVA class 2, it is a processed culinary ingredient, not ultra-processed.
With 0g added sugar and only 18.04mg sodium per 100g, it is low in these components.
Pair with lean protein and vegetables to create a balanced meal.
Scores +43 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
10.7g
38% of Daily Value
Protein
12.5g
25% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
18.04mg
1% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Fiber (10.7g)+12
Protein (12.5g)+8
Micronutrients (Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus)+6
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
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What holds it back
Nothing significantly penalised here. Well done.
Why it scores 84
BARILLA, WHOLE GRAIN PASTA, ANGEL HAIR earns a FoodScore of 84/100, placing it in the 'Very good' category. This high score is primarily driven by its substantial fiber and protein content. Per 100g, it delivers 10.7g of fiber, which significantly contributes to the bonus points. The 12.5g of protein per 100g also adds a notable bonus. Furthermore, the product contains beneficial micronutrients like 3.21mg of iron (18% DV) and 143mg of magnesium (34% DV), which further boost its score. The ingredient list, featuring whole grain durum wheat flour as the primary component, along with semolina and oat fiber, indicates a minimally processed product, classified as NOVA 2. This avoids penalties associated with ultra-processed foods. There are no added sugars, saturated fat, or trans fat, and sodium is very low at 18.04mg per 100g, preventing any deductions. Compared to whole-food alternatives like raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit, this pasta offers a different nutritional profile, serving as a dense carbohydrate source rather than a primary protein or fat source.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in barilla, whole grain pasta, angel hair actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Digestive Health
This BARILLA pasta is a good source of fiber, providing 10.7g per 100g. Dietary fiber is crucial for maintaining regular bowel movements and can help prevent constipation. Including fiber-rich foods like whole grain pasta in your diet contributes to overall gut health by supporting a healthy digestive system. This can be a practical way to increase your daily fiber intake, especially when paired with other fiber-rich ingredients in a meal.
Contributes to Satiety
With 12.5g of protein and 10.7g of fiber per 100g, this whole grain angel hair pasta can contribute to feelings of fullness and satiety. Both protein and fiber are known to slow digestion and help regulate appetite, which can be beneficial for managing food intake. Incorporating this pasta into meals, especially when combined with additional protein and vegetables, can help you feel satisfied longer after eating.
Provides Essential Minerals
BARILLA Whole Grain Angel Hair pasta offers meaningful amounts of essential minerals, including 3.21mg of iron (18% DV) and 143mg of magnesium (34% DV) per 100g. Iron is vital for oxygen transport in the blood, while magnesium plays a role in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, including muscle and nerve function. These minerals are important for various bodily functions and contribute to overall health.
BARILLA, WHOLE GRAIN PASTA, ANGEL HAIR scores an 84/100 (Very good) due to its significant fiber and protein content, making it a strong choice for a staple carbohydrate.
How to eat it
Whole grain pasta like BARILLA Angel Hair is commonly eaten as a main course, often paired with sauces, vegetables, and protein. A typical serving size is 2 ounces dry, which expands significantly when cooked. It serves as a versatile base for meals and can be incorporated into various cuisines.
Pair with a lean protein source like chicken breast or legumes and a generous portion of non-starchy vegetables to create a balanced meal.
Be mindful of portion sizes; a 2-ounce dry serving is a good starting point to manage carbohydrate intake.
Opt for vegetable-based sauces with minimal added sugars and sodium to complement the pasta's nutritional profile.
Use leftover cooked pasta in cold pasta salads with plenty of fresh vegetables and a light vinaigrette.
Things to keep in mind
The ingredient list for BARILLA, WHOLE GRAIN PASTA, ANGEL HAIR is relatively straightforward, consisting of whole grain durum wheat flour, semolina, durum wheat flour, and oat fiber. The primary allergen present is wheat, which is clearly declared. Individuals with celiac disease or a wheat allergy should avoid this product. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives listed. The product is not a significant source of sodium or added sugars, so it does not pose concerns for individuals monitoring those intakes. For those with gluten sensitivity, even though it's whole grain, it still contains gluten and would not be suitable. Overall, for individuals without wheat allergies, this product is generally well-tolerated.
BARILLA Whole Grain Pasta, Angel Hair, scores an 84/100, placing it in the 'Very good' category. It is a nutritionally sound choice due to its high fiber (10.7g per 100g) and protein (12.5g per 100g) content, along with essential minerals like iron and magnesium. It contains no added sugar or saturated fat, making it a beneficial carbohydrate source when consumed in appropriate portions.
How does BARILLA Whole Grain Pasta compare to regular pasta?
Compared to traditional refined white pasta, BARILLA Whole Grain Pasta offers significantly more fiber and often a higher protein content. The whole grain durum wheat flour ensures that more of the grain's nutrients, including B vitamins and minerals, are retained. This makes it a more nutrient-dense option than many conventional pastas, contributing more to satiety and digestive health.
What is 'whole grain durum wheat flour' and why is it important?
Whole grain durum wheat flour means that the entire wheat kernel—bran, germ, and endosperm—is used in the flour. This is important because the bran and germ contain most of the fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Including whole grain flour ensures you get a more complete nutritional profile compared to refined flours, which only use the endosperm.
What is a recommended portion size for this pasta?
A recommended dry portion size for BARILLA Angel Hair pasta is typically 2 ounces (about 56 grams). This amount provides a reasonable serving of carbohydrates and contributes to your daily fiber and protein intake. It's important to measure dry pasta before cooking to accurately manage portion sizes and overall calorie intake for your meal.
Can I eat BARILLA Whole Grain Pasta if I'm trying to lose weight?
Yes, you can include BARILLA Whole Grain Pasta in a weight management plan. Its high fiber and protein content can help you feel fuller for longer, potentially reducing overall calorie intake. The key is portion control and pairing it with lean proteins and plenty of non-starchy vegetables. It's a better choice than many refined grain options, but moderation is still important.
How does this compare to other whole wheat pasta brands like Ronzoni?
BARILLA Whole Grain Pasta generally compares favorably to other whole wheat pasta brands such as Ronzoni. Both typically offer similar benefits in terms of fiber and protein from whole grains. Consumers should always check the specific nutrition facts panel and ingredient list, as formulations can vary slightly between brands regarding the exact blend of whole grain and other flours, which might impact micronutrient content or texture.