CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN MARGHERITA VINE-RIPENED TOMATOES, TOMATO SAUCE, REDUCED FAT MOZZARELLA, PARMESAN CHEESE, AND BASIL ON A CRISPY THIN CRUST PIZZA, MARGHERITA
CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN MARGHERITA PIZZA scores 45/100 (Decent). Its NOVA class 4 designation as an ultra-processed food is the primary factor impacting its score.
This pizza has a FoodScore of 45/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
A serving provides 9.88g of protein, contributing positively to its nutritional profile.
The product is ultra-processed (NOVA 4), which negatively impacts its overall score.
With 366.28mg of sodium per 100g, it is higher in sodium compared to generic dairy products.
Consider this pizza as an occasional meal, balancing it with whole, unprocessed foods.
Scores +12 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
1.2g
4% of Daily Value
Protein
9.88g
20% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
366.28mg
16% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (9.9g)+5
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (4.7g)-3
Sodium (366.3mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 45
The CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN MARGHERITA PIZZA receives a FoodScore of 45 out of 100, categorized as 'Decent'. This score is influenced by several factors, both positive and negative. On the positive side, the pizza provides 9.88g of protein per 100g, earning a +5 bonus. It also contributes meaningful amounts of certain micronutrients, specifically 11% DV for calcium and 48% DV for vitamin A per 100g, adding another +4 bonus. However, several elements detract from its score. The product contains 4.65g of saturated fat per 100g, resulting in a -3 penalty. Its sodium content of 366.28mg per 100g leads to a -1 penalty. A significant factor is its classification as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food, which incurs a substantial -10 penalty. Ingredients like palm oil and soy lecithin in the crust contribute to its processed nature. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which often has a simpler ingredient list and lower processing, this CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN pizza is a more complex food item with a higher degree of processing.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in california pizza kitchen margherita vine-ripened tomatoes, tomato sauce, reduced fat mozzarella, parmesan cheese, and basil on a crispy thin crust pizza, margherita actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This pizza provides 9.88g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to your daily protein intake. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in muscle repair and growth, as well as the production of enzymes and hormones. Including adequate protein in meals can also help with satiety, potentially reducing overall calorie intake later in the day. While not a primary protein source, it can supplement other protein-rich foods in a balanced diet.
Good Source of Vitamin A
The CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN MARGHERITA PIZZA offers 48% DV of Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, supporting immune function, and promoting proper cell growth and differentiation. This nutrient is often found in dairy products and certain vegetables, making this pizza a contributor to your intake. Incorporating foods rich in Vitamin A supports overall bodily functions.
Provides Calcium
With 144.77mg of calcium per 100g, this pizza contributes 11% of the Daily Value for calcium. Calcium is vital for strong bones and teeth, playing a key role in bone density and preventing osteoporosis. It also supports nerve function, muscle contraction, and blood clotting. Including calcium-rich foods in your diet is important for maintaining skeletal health throughout life.
CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN MARGHERITA PIZZA scores 45/100 (Decent). Its NOVA class 4 designation as an ultra-processed food is the primary factor impacting its score.
How to eat it
Frozen pizzas like CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN MARGHERITA PIZZA are typically consumed as a quick meal, often for lunch or dinner. The serving size is one entire pizza, which can be a substantial portion. Common pitfalls include not pairing it with other food groups, leading to a less balanced meal.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair this pizza with a large side salad rich in diverse vegetables.
Consider sharing the pizza to manage portion sizes and reduce calorie and sodium intake.
Add extra fresh toppings like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach before baking to boost fiber and micronutrients.
Serve alongside a lean protein source such as grilled chicken or beans to increase overall protein content of the meal.
Things to keep in mind
This CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN pizza is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed. This classification is due to the presence of multiple processing aids and ingredients like vegetable shortening (palm oil, soy lecithin), dextrose, and leavening agents. Individuals with sensitivities to highly processed foods may wish to consume this product in moderation. It contains common allergens including wheat, milk, and soy, which are clearly listed in the ingredient statement. Those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this product due to the wheat flour in the crust. The sodium content is also notable, and individuals monitoring their sodium intake for blood pressure management should be mindful of the serving size.
Is CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN Margherita Pizza healthy?
CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN Margherita Pizza has a FoodScore of 45/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. While it offers protein, calcium, and vitamin A, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content are factors to consider. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with other nutrient-dense foods.
How does CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN Margherita Pizza compare to other frozen pizzas?
Compared to many other frozen pizzas on the market, CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN Margherita Pizza's nutritional profile is comparable. For example, a similar frozen pizza from a brand like DiGiorno might have a similar sodium and saturated fat content. Consumers should always check the nutrition facts panel of specific products for direct comparison, as formulations can vary significantly.
What is 'reduced fat reduced sodium mozzarella cheese' in the ingredients?
This ingredient indicates that the cheese used has been processed to contain less fat and less sodium than standard mozzarella. The inclusion of modified food starch in this cheese is common in reduced-fat dairy products to maintain texture and mouthfeel, which is a characteristic of processed foods.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pizza?
The declared serving size is one entire pizza. However, for many individuals, consuming the whole pizza might lead to a high intake of calories, sodium, and saturated fat in a single meal. Consider sharing the pizza or consuming half a pizza and supplementing with a large salad to create a more balanced meal.
Can this pizza be part of a diet for weight management?
This pizza can be included in a weight management diet, but portion control is key. At 226.74 calories per 100g and a serving size of one entire pizza, consuming the whole pizza would contribute a significant amount of calories. Pairing it with low-calorie, high-fiber foods like vegetables can help manage overall calorie intake and increase satiety.