CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN QUESO FUNDIDO WITH CHORIZO CHORIZO, POBLANO PEPPERS, MOZZARELLA, CHEDDAR CHEESE, CILANTRO AND A CREAMY GARLIC SAUCE ON A CRISPY THIN CRUST PIZZA, QUESO FUNDIDO WITH CHORIZO
CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN QUESO FUNDIDO WITH CHORIZO scores 49/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. Its NOVA 4 classification as an ultra-processed food is the primary factor impacting its score.
This pizza scores 49/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
A serving provides 9.02g of protein, contributing to satiety.
With 406.02mg of sodium per 100g, this product is high in sodium.
It is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
Consider this pizza for occasional consumption rather than a regular meal.
Scores +16 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0.8g
3% of Daily Value
Protein
9.02g
18% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
406.02mg
18% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (9.0g)+5
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C)+6
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (3.8g)-1
Sodium (406.0mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 49
CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN QUESO FUNDIDO WITH CHORIZO receives a FoodScore of 49/100, categorized as 'Decent'. This score is influenced by several factors. On the positive side, the product earns 5 bonus points for its protein content, providing 9.02g per 100g. It also gains 6 bonus points for notable micronutrient contributions, including 14% DV for calcium, 42% DV for Vitamin A, and 20% DV for Vitamin C. However, several penalties significantly reduce the overall score. The product incurs a 1-point penalty for its saturated fat content of 3.76g per 100g and another 1-point penalty for its sodium level of 406.02mg per 100g. The most substantial penalty, a deduction of 10 points, is due to its classification as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food. Ingredients like enriched wheat flour and maltodextrin are characteristic of this classification. When compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this pizza offers a more complex nutritional profile due to its multiple components, but also comes with higher levels of sodium and saturated fat.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in california pizza kitchen queso fundido with chorizo chorizo, poblano peppers, mozzarella, cheddar cheese, cilantro and a creamy garlic sauce on a crispy thin crust pizza, queso fundido with chorizo actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN pizza provides 9.02g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to feelings of fullness and support muscle maintenance. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in numerous bodily functions, including tissue repair and enzyme production. Incorporating protein into meals can help manage appetite and provide sustained energy, making this product a potential option for meeting daily protein needs when balanced with other foods.
Contains Essential Micronutrients
The product offers a notable amount of certain micronutrients. Per 100g, it contributes 14% DV for calcium, which is crucial for bone health and nerve function. It also provides 42% DV for Vitamin A, important for vision and immune function, and 20% DV for Vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune health. These contributions can help individuals meet a portion of their daily requirements for these vitamins and minerals.
Convenient Meal Option
As a frozen pizza, this product offers convenience for quick meals. It can be a practical option for individuals with limited time for meal preparation, providing a ready-to-eat solution. While it is an ultra-processed food, its ease of preparation can be beneficial in certain situations, allowing for a warm meal without extensive cooking. This convenience can be a factor for those seeking time-saving food choices.
CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN QUESO FUNDIDO WITH CHORIZO scores 49/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. Its NOVA 4 classification as an ultra-processed food is the primary factor impacting its score.
How to eat it
Frozen pizzas like this CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN QUESO FUNDIDO WITH CHORIZO are typically consumed as a quick lunch or dinner. A common portion is one-third of the pizza, but it's easy to overconsume due to its palatability. Balancing it with other foods is key to a nutritionally complete meal.
Pair with a large side salad to increase fiber and vegetable intake, helping to balance the meal.
Consider sharing the pizza or limiting your portion to one-third to manage calorie and sodium intake.
Add extra fresh vegetables like bell peppers or spinach before baking to boost nutrient density.
Serve with a side of fruit for dessert to introduce more natural sugars and vitamins.
Things to keep in mind
This product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed. Ultra-processed foods often contain ingredients like maltodextrin, which can contribute to a less nutrient-dense diet if consumed frequently. The product contains common allergens including wheat and milk, which are important considerations for individuals with sensitivities or allergies. Its high sodium content of 406.02mg per 100g means that regular consumption could contribute significantly to daily sodium intake, which may be a concern for individuals monitoring their blood pressure. There are no specific interactions or unique additives that warrant particular caution beyond general dietary advice for processed foods.
Is CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN QUESO FUNDIDO WITH CHORIZO healthy?
This pizza scores 49/100 on FoodScore, placing it in the 'Decent' category. While it provides protein, calcium, and vitamins A and C, it is an ultra-processed food with notable levels of saturated fat and sodium. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with more nutrient-dense foods.
How does CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN QUESO FUNDIDO WITH CHORIZO compare to other frozen pizzas?
Compared to many generic frozen pizzas, this CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN offering has a similar nutritional profile in terms of being an ultra-processed food with moderate protein and higher sodium. For instance, a comparable frozen pizza from a brand like DiGiorno might have similar macro and micronutrient contributions, often varying based on toppings and crust type. Always check the nutrition label for specific comparisons.
What does 'NOVA 4' mean for this product?
NOVA 4 signifies that this product is ultra-processed. This classification indicates that the food is made from industrial formulations typically containing many ingredients, including food additives, and often has a high caloric density, high sodium, and low fiber. While convenient, frequent consumption of NOVA 4 foods is generally not recommended for optimal health.
What is a recommended portion size for this pizza?
The declared serving size is 0.333 pizza, or one-third of the entire pizza. Adhering to this portion size helps manage the intake of calories, saturated fat, and sodium. Consuming the entire pizza would significantly increase these values beyond a typical single meal recommendation.
Can I add extra toppings to this pizza?
Yes, adding extra toppings like fresh vegetables (e.g., spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers) can enhance the nutritional value by increasing fiber and micronutrient content. This can help to balance the meal and make it more satisfying without significantly increasing the ultra-processed component of the pizza itself.