BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, THICK SPAGHETTI earns a FoodScore of 63/100 (Good), primarily driven by its **enriched flour base** and notable protein and fiber content.
FoodScore: 63/100 (Good), indicating a moderately processed option.
A serving provides 12.5g of protein and 5.39g of fiber per 100g, contributing to satiety.
This product is NOVA class 3 (processed), meaning it has undergone significant industrial processing.
Contains 0g of added sugar and 0mg of sodium, aligning with dietary recommendations.
Pair with vegetables and lean protein to create a more nutritionally complete meal.
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, THICK SPAGHETTI achieves a FoodScore of 63 out of 100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score reflects its nutritional profile, which includes positive contributions from protein and fiber, alongside considerations for its processing level. The product receives a bonus of +6 for its fiber content of 5.39g per 100g and a further +8 for its 12.5g of protein per 100g, both of which are beneficial for satiety and digestive health. Additionally, the inclusion of micronutrients like iron (3.57mg, 20% DV) and riboflavin, derived from the enrichment process, adds +4 to its score. However, as a NOVA class 3 processed food, it incurs a penalty of -5, indicating that it has undergone significant industrial processing. The ingredient list highlights semolina (wheat) and durum wheat flour as primary components, along with added vitamins and minerals such as thiamine mononitrate and folic acid. While it lacks the whole grain benefits of alternatives like whole wheat pasta, it provides more nutritional value than highly refined grain products. Compared to whole-food alternatives such as raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit, this spaghetti offers a different macronutrient balance, focusing on carbohydrates as its main energy source.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in barilla enriched macaroni product, thick spaghetti actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Satiety and Digestive Health
This BARILLA spaghetti provides 12.5g of protein and 5.39g of fiber per 100g serving. These nutrients are important for promoting a feeling of fullness after eating, which can help with portion control. The fiber content also contributes to digestive regularity and overall gut health. While not a primary source of fiber compared to whole grains, the amount present is a notable contribution for an enriched pasta product.
Provides Essential Micronutrients
BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, THICK SPAGHETTI is fortified with several key micronutrients. A 100g serving delivers 3.57mg of iron, accounting for 20% of the Daily Value, which is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood. It also contains B vitamins like thiamine mononitrate and riboflavin, which play vital roles in energy metabolism. This enrichment helps address potential nutrient gaps that might arise from diets low in whole grains.
Low in Saturated Fat and Added Sugars
This product contains 0g of saturated fat and 0g of added sugar per 100g, making it a suitable option for those monitoring their intake of these components. A diet low in saturated fat can support cardiovascular health, while avoiding added sugars is beneficial for managing blood glucose levels and preventing excess calorie intake. The absence of these ingredients allows for greater flexibility in preparing meals with healthier additions.
BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, THICK SPAGHETTI earns a FoodScore of 63/100 (Good), primarily driven by its enriched flour base and notable protein and fiber content.
How to eat it
BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, THICK SPAGHETTI is a staple in many US households, typically served as the base for various pasta dishes. A common portion is 2 ounces dry, which expands significantly when cooked. It's often paired with sauces, vegetables, and protein sources.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair your spaghetti with plenty of vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers.
Incorporate a lean protein source such as chicken breast, fish, or lentils to create a more balanced meal that supports satiety.
Be mindful of portion sizes; a 2-ounce dry serving is a good starting point, especially when combined with other ingredients to avoid excess calorie intake.
Opt for homemade or low-sodium sauces to control the overall sodium content of your meal, as the spaghetti itself contains 0mg of sodium.
Things to keep in mind
BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, THICK SPAGHETTI contains wheat as its primary ingredient, specifically semolina and durum wheat flour. Individuals with celiac disease or a wheat allergy should avoid this product due to the presence of gluten. There are no other major allergens declared on the label. The product does not contain artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives that typically raise concerns. For most healthy individuals, this product is generally safe when consumed as part of a balanced diet. However, those managing blood sugar levels should consider the carbohydrate content and pair it with fiber and protein to help moderate glycemic response.
Is BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, THICK SPAGHETTI healthy?
This BARILLA spaghetti has a FoodScore of 63/100 (Good). It provides a good source of protein and fiber for an enriched pasta, along with essential micronutrients like iron. While it is a processed food, its nutritional profile can contribute to a balanced diet when paired with vegetables and lean proteins. It's a better choice than highly refined grain products with added sugars.
How does BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, THICK SPAGHETTI compare to other pasta brands?
Compared to a whole wheat pasta like Barilla Whole Grain Spaghetti, this enriched product has less fiber. However, it offers a similar protein content and is fortified with B vitamins and iron. When compared to a standard white pasta from brands like Ronzoni, BARILLA's enriched version often has a comparable nutritional profile, focusing on fortification to enhance nutrient density.
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. In this BARILLA product, the enrichment includes Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Iron (Ferrous Sulfate), Vitamin B1 (Thiamine Mononitrate), Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin), and Folic Acid. This process helps to restore some of the nutritional value of the grain.
What is a typical serving size for this spaghetti?
The declared serving size for BARILLA ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, THICK SPAGHETTI is 2 ounces (dry). When cooked, this expands significantly. It's important to measure dry pasta to ensure accurate portion control and to align with the nutritional information provided on the package.
Can this spaghetti be part of a weight management plan?
Yes, this spaghetti can be included in a weight management plan, provided that portion sizes are controlled and it is part of a balanced meal. Its protein (12.5g/100g) and fiber (5.39g/100g) content can contribute to satiety. Pairing it with a generous amount of non-starchy vegetables and a lean protein source can help create a filling meal with fewer calories overall.