BARILLA WHOLE GRAIN ELBOWS PASTA earns a FoodScore of 85/100 (Very good), primarily driven by its high fiber content and minimal processing.
This product scores 85/100, indicating a very good nutritional profile.
A serving provides 10.7g of fiber, contributing significantly to daily intake.
It contains 0g of added sugar and 0mg of sodium per 100g.
As a NOVA class 2 food, it is a minimally processed culinary ingredient.
Consider pairing with vegetables and lean protein to create a balanced meal.
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
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What holds it back
Nothing significantly penalised here. Well done.
Why it scores 85
BARILLA WHOLE GRAIN ELBOWS PASTA achieves a FoodScore of 85 out of 100, placing it in the 'Very good' category. This strong score is largely due to its nutritional composition, particularly its high fiber and protein content. The product provides 10.7g of fiber per 100g, which significantly boosts its score, along with 14.3g of protein. It also benefits from a good micronutrient profile, contributing 36% DV for iron and 34% DV for magnesium per 100g. The ingredient list is straightforward, containing only WHOLE GRAIN DURUM WHEAT FLOUR, which aligns with its NOVA class 2 designation as a minimally processed culinary ingredient. This lack of added sugars, sodium, or unhealthy fats further enhances its score. Compared to whole-food alternatives like raw almonds or a hard-boiled egg with fruit, this pasta offers a different nutritional profile, excelling in fiber and complex carbohydrates, making it a valuable component for energy and satiety.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in barilla whole grain elbows pasta actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Digestive Health
This pasta is an excellent source of dietary fiber, providing 10.7g per 100g. Fiber is crucial for maintaining regular bowel movements and can help prevent constipation. Including fiber-rich foods like BARILLA WHOLE GRAIN ELBOWS PASTA in your diet contributes to overall gut health by supporting a healthy digestive system. The fiber content also aids in satiety, which can be beneficial for weight management by helping you feel fuller for longer.
Provides Sustained Energy
As a whole grain product, BARILLA WHOLE GRAIN ELBOWS PASTA offers complex carbohydrates that are digested slowly, providing a steady release of energy. This helps to avoid the rapid blood sugar spikes and crashes often associated with refined grains. The combination of complex carbohydrates and fiber makes this pasta a suitable food for sustained energy, supporting daily activities and physical performance without quick fatigue.
Contributes Essential Minerals
This pasta is a good source of important minerals, notably iron and magnesium. Per 100g, it supplies 36% of the Daily Value for iron and 34% 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. Incorporating this pasta can help meet daily requirements for these essential micronutrients.
BARILLA WHOLE GRAIN ELBOWS PASTA earns a FoodScore of 85/100 (Very good), primarily driven by its high fiber content and minimal processing.
How to eat it
BARILLA WHOLE GRAIN ELBOWS PASTA is a versatile base for many meals in a typical US diet. It's commonly used in dishes like macaroni and cheese, pasta salads, or as a side with sauces. A standard serving size is 2 ounces dry, which expands significantly when cooked.
Pair with a lean protein source like chicken or beans and plenty of non-starchy vegetables to create a balanced and nutrient-dense meal.
Control portions by measuring the dry pasta before cooking; a 2-ounce serving is a good starting point for most adults.
Enhance the nutritional value by adding fiber-rich vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers to your pasta dishes.
Consider using a light, vegetable-based sauce instead of creamy, high-fat sauces to keep the overall meal balanced.
Things to keep in mind
This product consists solely of WHOLE GRAIN DURUM WHEAT FLOUR, meaning it contains gluten. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this product. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives listed in the ingredients. Given its simple formulation, there are no specific concerns regarding additives or potential interactions for the general population. As with any carbohydrate-rich food, individuals managing blood sugar levels should be mindful of portion sizes and pair it with protein and healthy fats to moderate glycemic response.
Reader questions
Is BARILLA Whole Grain Elbows Pasta healthy?
Yes, BARILLA Whole Grain Elbows Pasta is considered a healthy option. It scores 85/100 on FoodScore, indicating a very good nutritional profile. Its primary ingredient is whole grain durum wheat flour, providing significant fiber and protein, and it contains no added sugars or sodium.
How does BARILLA Whole Grain Elbows Pasta compare to regular white pasta?
BARILLA Whole Grain Elbows Pasta offers a superior nutritional profile compared to regular white pasta, such as Barilla's own Classic Blue Box Elbows. It contains significantly more fiber (10.7g vs. ~3g per 100g) and protein (14.3g vs. ~12g per 100g), which contributes to better satiety and digestive health. Whole grain pasta also typically has a lower glycemic index.
What does 'whole grain' mean for this pasta?
For this BARILLA pasta, 'whole grain' means that the flour used, WHOLE GRAIN DURUM WHEAT FLOUR, retains all parts of the wheat kernel: the bran, germ, and endosperm. This ensures that the pasta contains more fiber, B vitamins, and minerals compared to refined grain pastas where the bran and germ are removed.
What is a recommended portion size for BARILLA Whole Grain Elbows Pasta?
A recommended portion size for BARILLA Whole Grain Elbows Pasta is 2 ounces (dry weight), which is approximately 56 grams. When cooked, this amount expands considerably. It's important to measure dry pasta to accurately manage carbohydrate intake, especially if you are monitoring calories or blood sugar.
Can I use this pasta in gluten-free recipes?
No, BARILLA Whole Grain Elbows Pasta is made from WHOLE GRAIN DURUM WHEAT FLOUR and therefore contains gluten. It is not suitable for gluten-free diets or individuals with celiac disease. For gluten-free options, look for pastas specifically labeled as gluten-free, typically made from corn, rice, or legume flours.