BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, DITALINI scores 63/100 (Good) due to its contribution of protein and fiber, despite being a processed food.
FoodScore: 63/100 (Good) for BARILLA Ditalini.
Provides 12.5g of protein and 5.39g of fiber per 100g serving.
Classified as NOVA 3 (processed), indicating a moderate level of processing.
Contains 0g added sugar and 0mg sodium, which are positive attributes.
A 2-ounce serving is a reasonable portion for many meals.
Scores +22 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
5.39g
19% of Daily Value
Protein
12.5g
25% 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 (5.4g)+6
Protein (12.5g)+8
Micronutrients (Iron, Riboflavin)+4
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What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 63
BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, DITALINI achieves a FoodScore of 63 out of 100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score reflects its nutritional contributions, balanced against its processed nature. The product receives bonuses for its protein content, providing 12.5g per 100g, and its fiber, at 5.39g per 100g. Additionally, the inclusion of micronutrients like iron (3.57mg, 20% DV) and riboflavin contributes positively to its score. The ingredient list highlights SEMOLINA (WHEAT) and DURUM WHEAT FLOUR, which are the primary sources of these macronutrients. While BARILLA Ditalini is enriched with several vitamins and minerals, it is classified as NOVA 3, indicating it is a processed food, which incurs a penalty of 5 points. This classification means it has undergone industrial processing, unlike whole-food alternatives such as raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg paired with fruit, which are minimally processed. The absence of added sugar and sodium are favorable aspects, aligning with dietary guidelines for limiting these components.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in barilla enriched macaroni product, ditalini actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Satiety
BARILLA Ditalini provides 12.5g of protein per 100g, which is a meaningful amount for a grain-based product. Protein is essential for the repair and growth of muscle tissue and can contribute to feelings of fullness, helping manage appetite. Incorporating this pasta into meals with other protein sources, such as lean meats, legumes, or dairy, can help meet daily protein needs and support overall satiety.
Contributes to Digestive Health
With 5.39g of fiber per 100g, BARILLA Ditalini offers a moderate amount of dietary fiber. Fiber is crucial for maintaining healthy digestion, promoting regular bowel movements, and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. While not as high in fiber as whole grains or legumes, this product can still contribute to your daily fiber intake when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
Source of Essential Micronutrients
This enriched macaroni product is a source of several important micronutrients, notably providing 3.57mg of iron (20% DV) per 100g. Iron is vital for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. The enrichment process, which includes VITAMIN B3 (NIACIN), IRON (FERROUS SULFATE), and FOLIC ACID, helps to restore nutrients lost during processing and adds others to enhance nutritional value, supporting various bodily functions.
BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, DITALINI scores 63/100 (Good) due to its contribution of protein and fiber, despite being a processed food.
How to eat it
BARILLA Ditalini is a versatile pasta often used in soups, stews, and pasta salads. A typical serving of 2 ounces (dry) provides a good base for a meal. It's commonly boiled and then combined with sauces, vegetables, and proteins.
Pair with a lean protein source like chicken breast or lentils and plenty of non-starchy vegetables to create a balanced meal.
Use in soups or stews to add texture and substance, ensuring you include a variety of colorful vegetables for added nutrients.
Consider using a smaller portion of pasta and increasing the volume of vegetables and legumes to boost fiber and nutrient intake.
Store in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness; cooked pasta should be refrigerated and consumed within 3-4 days.
Things to keep in mind
BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, DITALINI contains WHEAT as a primary ingredient, making it unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or a wheat allergy. The product is enriched with several vitamins and minerals, including FERROUS SULFATE for iron, which is a common and safe form of fortification. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives listed in the ingredients. For most healthy individuals, this product does not present specific cautions beyond managing portion sizes to fit within overall dietary goals. Individuals with specific dietary restrictions or sensitivities should always review the full ingredient list.
BARILLA Ditalini scores 63/100, indicating it is a 'Good' choice within a balanced diet. It provides protein and fiber, and is fortified with essential micronutrients like iron. While it is a processed food, its nutritional profile can contribute positively to meals, especially when paired with other nutrient-dense ingredients.
How does BARILLA Ditalini compare to other pasta brands?
Compared to other enriched pasta brands like Ronzoni or Mueller's, BARILLA Ditalini has a similar nutritional profile, offering comparable amounts of protein, fiber, and fortified micronutrients. The choice often comes down to personal preference for texture and shape, as most standard enriched pastas are quite similar in their basic nutritional composition.
What does 'enriched' mean in the ingredient list?
The term 'enriched' means that certain nutrients lost during the processing of the wheat flour have been added back, and sometimes additional nutrients are included. For BARILLA Ditalini, this includes VITAMIN B3 (NIACIN), IRON (FERROUS SULFATE), VITAMIN B1 (THIAMINE MONONITRATE), VITAMIN B2 (RIBOFLAVIN), and FOLIC ACID, enhancing its micronutrient content.
What is a recommended portion size for BARILLA Ditalini?
A recommended serving size for BARILLA Ditalini is 2 ounces (dry), which is approximately 56 grams. This portion provides a reasonable amount of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber for a single meal. Adjusting portion sizes based on individual energy needs and activity levels is always advisable.
Can BARILLA Ditalini be part of a weight management plan?
Yes, BARILLA Ditalini can be included in a weight management plan. Its protein and fiber content can contribute to satiety, which is helpful for appetite control. The key is to manage portion sizes and pair it with plenty of vegetables and lean protein to create a calorie-appropriate and nutrient-dense meal.