BARILLA GRAIN & LEGUME PASTA, SPAGHETTI earns a FoodScore of 70/100 (Good), primarily driven by its **significant protein and fiber content** from the blend of wheat and legume flours.
FoodScore: 70/100 (Good) for BARILLA GRAIN & LEGUME PASTA, SPAGHETTI.
Provides 17.86g protein and 8.89g fiber per 100g, contributing to satiety.
Classified as NOVA 3 (processed), indicating some ingredient alteration.
Contains 0g added sugar and 0mg sodium, which are positive attributes.
A 2 oz serving offers a convenient way to increase fiber and protein intake.
Scores +29 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
8.89g
32% of Daily Value
Protein
17.86g
36% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (8.9g)+11
Protein (17.9g)+10
Micronutrients (Iron, Riboflavin)+4
−
What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 70
BARILLA GRAIN & LEGUME PASTA, SPAGHETTI achieves a FoodScore of 70 out of 100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score reflects its notable nutritional contributions, particularly in protein and fiber. The product receives significant bonuses for its high fiber content, providing 8.89g per 100g, and its substantial protein contribution of 17.86g per 100g. Additionally, it earns points for micronutrients like iron (3.57mg, 20% DV) and riboflavin. The ingredient list, featuring semolina, durum wheat flour, lentil flour, pea protein, chickpea flour, barley flour, and spelt flour, indicates a blend designed to boost these macronutrients. The absence of added sugar and sodium are also favorable aspects. However, as a NOVA 3 classified food, it incurs a minor penalty due to being a processed product. Compared to whole-food alternatives like raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg paired with fruit, BARILLA pasta offers a different nutritional profile, providing a higher carbohydrate load but also a convenient source of plant-based protein and fiber.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in barilla grain & legume pasta, spaghetti actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Digestive Health
This BARILLA pasta is a good source of dietary fiber, providing 8.89g per 100g. Fiber is essential for maintaining regular bowel movements and can contribute to overall digestive wellness. Including fiber-rich foods like this pasta in your diet can help prevent constipation and support a healthy gut microbiome. The blend of wheat and legume flours, including lentil flour and chickpea flour, naturally increases the fiber content compared to traditional pasta.
Contributes to Muscle Maintenance and Satiety
With 17.86g of protein per 100g, BARILLA GRAIN & LEGUME PASTA, SPAGHETTI is a significant source of plant-based protein. Protein is crucial for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function. The inclusion of pea protein and various legume flours enhances the protein profile of this pasta. Consuming adequate protein can also contribute to feelings of fullness, potentially aiding in weight management by reducing overall calorie intake.
Provides Essential Micronutrients
This pasta is fortified with several important micronutrients, notably providing 3.57mg of iron, which is 20% of the Daily Value per 100g. Iron is vital for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production. The pasta also contains B vitamins like thiamine mononitrate and riboflavin, which play roles in metabolism. These added vitamins and minerals contribute to meeting daily nutritional requirements, especially for individuals who may have lower intake of these nutrients.
BARILLA GRAIN & LEGUME PASTA, SPAGHETTI earns a FoodScore of 70/100 (Good), primarily driven by its significant protein and fiber content from the blend of wheat and legume flours.
How to eat it
BARILLA GRAIN & LEGUME PASTA, SPAGHETTI is typically consumed as a main dish or side, often paired with sauces, vegetables, and protein sources. A common serving size is 2 ounces dry, which expands significantly when cooked. It can be a versatile base for a balanced meal.
Pair with a lean protein source like chicken or fish and plenty of non-starchy vegetables to create a complete and nutrient-dense meal.
Consider a smaller portion of pasta and increase the volume of vegetables in your dish to boost nutrient intake and manage calorie density.
Use whole-food based sauces, such as those made with tomatoes and herbs, to avoid adding excessive amounts of sodium or added sugars.
Prepare a larger batch and portion it out for convenient meal prep throughout the week, combining with different toppings each time.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains wheat and barley, which are common allergens. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this pasta due to the presence of semolina, durum wheat flour, barley flour, and spelt flour. The ingredient list is generally straightforward, without artificial colors, flavors, or high levels of sodium or added sugars that often raise concerns in processed foods. As a processed food (NOVA 3), it has undergone some industrial processing, but the ingredients are recognizable and contribute to its nutritional profile. There are no specific additives in this formulation that typically warrant significant caution for the general population.
BARILLA GRAIN & LEGUME PASTA, SPAGHETTI scores 70/100, indicating it's a good choice. It offers high protein and fiber content (17.86g protein, 8.89g fiber per 100g) and is free from added sugar and sodium. While it is a processed food, its nutritional profile is enhanced by the inclusion of legume and other grain flours.
How does BARILLA GRAIN & LEGUME PASTA compare to traditional pasta?
Compared to traditional white pasta, BARILLA GRAIN & LEGUME PASTA offers significantly more protein and fiber. For example, many traditional pastas have around 13g protein and 3g fiber per 100g. This BARILLA product's blend of lentil, chickpea, and pea flours boosts these macronutrients, making it a more nutrient-dense option than standard semolina pasta like some offerings from De Cecco.
What is 'pea protein' and why is it in this pasta?
Pea protein is a protein isolated from yellow peas. It's included in this BARILLA pasta to increase the overall protein content, contributing to the product's 17.86g per 100g. It's a plant-based protein source that helps enhance the nutritional value, especially for those looking to boost their protein intake.
What is a recommended portion size for this pasta?
A standard serving size for BARILLA GRAIN & LEGUME PASTA, SPAGHETTI is 2 ounces dry. This amount provides a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber for a meal. Adjusting portion sizes based on your individual energy needs and activity level is always recommended, but 2 ounces is a reasonable starting point for most adults.
Can I eat this pasta if I have gluten sensitivity?
No, this BARILLA pasta is not suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. The ingredient list clearly states 'SEMOLINA (WHEAT), DURUM WHEAT FLOUR, BARLEY FLOUR, SPELT FLOUR,' all of which contain gluten. Always check the ingredient list for gluten-containing grains if you have a sensitivity.