BARILLA Whole Wheat Pasta earns a FoodScore of 85/100, indicating a very good nutritional choice, primarily driven by its significant fiber and protein content from whole grains.
This BARILLA pasta scores 85/100, placing it in the 'Very Good' category.
It provides 10.7g of fiber and 14.3g of protein per 100g serving.
With 0g of added sugar and 0mg of sodium, it avoids common dietary concerns.
As a NOVA class 2 food, it is a minimally processed culinary ingredient.
A 2 oz serving offers 36% DV for iron and 34% DV for magnesium.
Scores +44 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
10.7g
38% of Daily Value
Protein
14.3g
29% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Fiber (10.7g)+12
Protein (14.3g)+10
Micronutrients (Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus)+6
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
Bonus cap (+35)-1
−
What holds it back
Nothing significantly penalised here. Well done.
Why it scores 85
BARILLA Whole Wheat Pasta achieves a FoodScore of 85 out of 100, reflecting its strong nutritional profile. The primary driver for this high score is its substantial fiber content, providing 10.7g per 100g, which contributes significantly to its positive evaluation. Additionally, the product offers 14.3g of protein per 100g, further enhancing its nutritional value. The ingredient list, containing only WHOLE GRAIN DURUM WHEAT FLOUR, indicates a minimally processed food, categorized as NOVA 2, which adds 8 points to its score. This product contains no added sugar, saturated fat, or sodium, avoiding common penalties. It also provides meaningful amounts of micronutrients like iron (36% DV) and magnesium (34% DV) per 100g. Compared to whole-food alternatives such as raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit, this pasta offers a different but still nutrient-dense carbohydrate source, particularly for fiber and protein.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in barilla, whole wheat pasta actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Digestive Health
BARILLA Whole Wheat Pasta is an excellent source of dietary fiber, providing 10.7g per 100g. This high fiber content is crucial for maintaining regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. Including fiber-rich foods like this whole wheat pasta in your diet can contribute to a healthy gut microbiome, as fiber acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria. The WHOLE GRAIN DURUM WHEAT FLOUR ensures that both soluble and insoluble fibers are present, offering comprehensive digestive support.
Contributes to Satiety and Muscle Maintenance
With 14.3g of protein per 100g, this BARILLA pasta can help you feel fuller for longer, which may assist with weight management by reducing overall calorie intake. Protein is also essential for the repair and growth of tissues, including muscles. Incorporating this whole wheat pasta into meals provides a plant-based protein source that supports muscle maintenance and recovery, especially when paired with other protein-rich ingredients.
Provides Essential Minerals
This whole wheat pasta is a good source of several important minerals. Per 100g, it supplies 36% DV for iron and 34% DV for magnesium. Iron is vital for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production, while magnesium plays a role in over 300 enzymatic reactions, including muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and blood pressure regulation. Consuming foods rich in these minerals, like BARILLA Whole Wheat Pasta, contributes to overall physiological health.
BARILLA Whole Wheat Pasta earns a FoodScore of 85/100, indicating a very good nutritional choice, primarily driven by its significant fiber and protein content from whole grains.
How to eat it
Whole wheat pasta is a versatile staple in many US diets, typically consumed as a main course or side dish. A common serving size is 2 ounces (dry), which expands significantly when cooked. It's often paired with sauces, vegetables, and protein sources to create a balanced and satisfying meal.
Pair BARILLA Whole Wheat Pasta with lean protein sources like chicken, fish, or legumes and plenty of non-starchy vegetables to create a complete meal.
Be mindful of portion sizes; a 2-ounce dry serving is a good starting point, and remember that sauces and toppings add calories.
Consider using this pasta as a base for cold pasta salads with vinaigrette, fresh herbs, and chopped vegetables for a refreshing meal.
For a quick meal, toss cooked whole wheat pasta with olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a simple yet flavorful dish.
Things to keep in mind
BARILLA Whole Wheat Pasta is generally well-tolerated and has a very simple ingredient list: WHOLE GRAIN DURUM WHEAT FLOUR. As it contains wheat, individuals with celiac disease or a wheat allergy should avoid this product. There are no artificial additives, colors, or preservatives to be concerned about. For those with gluten sensitivity, while not celiac, this product may still cause discomfort due to its wheat content. Otherwise, there are no specific dietary cautions for the general population regarding this particular SKU.
Reader questions
Is BARILLA Whole Wheat Pasta healthy?
Yes, BARILLA Whole Wheat Pasta is considered a very healthy choice, earning a FoodScore of 85/100. It is rich in fiber (10.7g per 100g) and protein (14.3g per 100g), and contains no added sugar or sodium. Its simple ingredient list of only whole grain durum wheat flour contributes to its high nutritional value.
How does BARILLA Whole Wheat Pasta compare to regular pasta?
BARILLA Whole Wheat Pasta offers significantly more fiber and protein compared to traditional refined white pasta. The whole grain content means it retains more nutrients, including iron and magnesium, which are often lost in the refining process of white pasta. This makes it a more nutritionally dense option for most diets.
What does 'WHOLE GRAIN DURUM WHEAT FLOUR' mean for my diet?
WHOLE GRAIN DURUM WHEAT FLOUR means that the entire wheat kernel, including the bran, germ, and endosperm, is used. This ensures that the pasta retains its natural fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Consuming whole grains is associated with better digestive health and a reduced risk of chronic diseases compared to refined grains.
What is a recommended portion size for BARILLA Whole Wheat Pasta?
A standard dry serving size is 2 ounces, which typically yields about 1 cup of cooked pasta. This portion provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fiber, and protein. It's important to consider what you pair it with, as sauces and other ingredients can significantly impact the overall nutritional profile of your meal.
Does BARILLA Whole Wheat Pasta contain gluten?
Yes, BARILLA Whole Wheat Pasta is made from WHOLE GRAIN DURUM WHEAT FLOUR, which naturally contains gluten. Therefore, it is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. For those seeking gluten-free alternatives, brands like Barilla also offer gluten-free pasta options made from corn and rice.
Can I eat BARILLA Whole Wheat Pasta every day?
Incorporating BARILLA Whole Wheat Pasta into your daily diet can be part of a healthy eating pattern, especially if you are mindful of portion sizes and pair it with a variety of vegetables and lean proteins. Its high fiber and protein content makes it a beneficial carbohydrate source. However, a balanced diet emphasizes variety, so rotating with other whole grains is also recommended.