BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, FARFALLE scores 63/100 (Good), primarily driven by its **beneficial fiber and protein content** from enriched wheat, despite being a processed food.
FoodScore: 63/100 (Good), indicating a moderate nutritional profile.
Provides 12.5g protein and 5.39g fiber per 100g, contributing to satiety.
Contains 0g added sugar and 0mg sodium, aligning with dietary guidelines.
NOVA class 3 (processed) means it's less ideal than whole-food alternatives.
Best used as a base for nutrient-dense sauces with vegetables and lean protein.
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, FARFALLE achieves a FoodScore of 63/100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and its processed nature. The product receives positive points for its fiber content, providing 5.39g per 100g, which is a meaningful contribution to daily intake. Its protein content of 12.5g per 100g also adds significant value, supporting muscle maintenance and satiety. Furthermore, the inclusion of essential micronutrients like iron (3.57mg, 20% DV) and riboflavin, derived from the enrichment process using ingredients like ferrous sulfate and thiamine mononitrate, boosts its nutritional standing. The absence of added sugar and sodium are also favorable aspects. However, as a NOVA class 3 processed food, it incurs a penalty, indicating it is not a whole food and has undergone significant processing. Compared to whole-food alternatives such as raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit, BARILLA pasta offers less micronutrient diversity and is not as nutrient-dense per calorie, but it can be a component of a balanced meal.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in barilla enriched macaroni product, farfalle actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Satiety and Digestive Health
BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, FARFALLE provides 5.39g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to feelings of fullness and support healthy digestion. Fiber adds bulk to the diet, aiding in regular bowel movements and potentially helping to manage appetite. Incorporating fiber-rich foods like this pasta into meals can be a strategy for individuals looking to increase their daily fiber intake, especially when paired with other high-fiber ingredients like vegetables and legumes.
Contributes to Protein Intake
With 12.5g of protein per 100g, this BARILLA pasta can be a useful component for meeting daily protein needs. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions. While not a complete protein source on its own, when combined with other protein-rich foods like lean meats, poultry, fish, or plant-based proteins such as beans and lentils, it can form a nutritionally robust meal that supports satiety and muscle health.
Source of Essential Micronutrients
This enriched macaroni product is fortified with several important micronutrients. It provides 3.57mg of iron per 100g, which is 20% of the Daily Value, and also contains B vitamins like thiamine mononitrate and riboflavin. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production, while B vitamins play vital roles in metabolism. These added nutrients help to enhance the nutritional profile of the pasta, making it a more beneficial carbohydrate source than unenriched varieties.
BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, FARFALLE scores 63/100 (Good), primarily driven by its beneficial fiber and protein content from enriched wheat, despite being a processed food.
How to eat it
Pasta is a versatile staple in many US diets, often consumed as a main course. A typical serving size is 2 ounces dry, which expands significantly when cooked. Common pitfalls include over-portioning and pairing with high-fat, high-sodium sauces.
Pair with vegetable-rich sauces to boost fiber and micronutrient intake, such as a marinara with spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
Combine with lean protein sources like grilled chicken, fish, or legumes to create a more balanced meal that supports satiety.
Be mindful of portion sizes; a 2-ounce dry serving is a reasonable amount for a single meal.
Consider using this pasta as a base for a cold pasta salad with plenty of fresh vegetables and a light vinaigrette dressing.
Things to keep in mind
BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, FARFALLE contains wheat as a primary ingredient, making it unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or a wheat allergy. The product is enriched with vitamins and minerals, including ferrous sulfate (iron), thiamine mononitrate (Vitamin B1), riboflavin (Vitamin B2), and folic acid. While these enrichments are generally beneficial, individuals with specific sensitivities to fortified foods should be aware. This product is a processed food (NOVA class 3), meaning it has undergone industrial processing. While generally safe, individuals aiming for a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods may choose to limit intake. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives listed in the ingredients.
Is BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, FARFALLE healthy?
This BARILLA pasta scores 63/100 (Good) on FoodScore. It provides beneficial amounts of fiber and protein, along with essential micronutrients like iron and B vitamins due to enrichment. While it is a processed food, it can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in appropriate portions and paired with nutrient-dense ingredients like vegetables and lean proteins.
How does BARILLA pasta compare to other brands like Ronzoni?
Compared to other enriched pasta brands like Ronzoni, BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, FARFALLE offers a similar nutritional profile, typically providing comparable amounts of protein, fiber, and fortified micronutrients. The key differences often lie in the specific wheat varieties used and the manufacturing process, which can subtly affect texture and cooking quality rather than core nutritional value. Both are generally NOVA class 3 processed foods.
What is semolina, and is it good for you?
Semolina is a coarse, purified wheat middling of durum wheat, primarily used in making pasta. It is a good source of carbohydrates for energy, and in this enriched product, it contributes to the fiber and protein content. The enrichment process adds back vitamins and minerals, making semolina a more nutritionally complete grain product than unenriched versions.
What is a recommended portion size for this pasta?
A recommended serving size for BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, FARFALLE is 2 ounces (dry), which is approximately 56 grams. When cooked, this typically yields about 1 cup of pasta. Adhering to this portion size helps manage calorie intake and ensures a balanced meal, especially when combined with other food groups.
Can I eat this pasta if I have celiac disease?
No, BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, FARFALLE contains wheat (semolina and durum wheat flour) and is therefore not suitable for individuals with celiac disease or a wheat allergy. For those with gluten sensitivities, it is important to choose certified gluten-free pasta alternatives made from ingredients like rice, corn, or legumes.