CLASSICO BASIL GARLIC ALFREDO PASTA SAUCE, BASIL GARLIC ALFREDO
CLASSICO BASIL GARLIC ALFREDO PASTA SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 39/100 (Poor), primarily driven by its **high sodium content** and classification as an **ultra-processed food**.
CLASSICO BASIL GARLIC ALFREDO PASTA SAUCE scores 39/100 (Poor) on FoodScore.
A 1/4 cup serving contains 483.33mg of sodium, contributing significantly to daily intake.
This product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
It provides 0g of fiber and 0g of added sugar per 100g serving.
Consider portion control due to the sodium content when incorporating into meals.
Scores -8 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
1.67g
3% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
483.33mg
21% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
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What holds it back
Sodium (483.3mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 39
CLASSICO BASIL GARLIC ALFREDO PASTA SAUCE achieves a FoodScore of 39 out of 100, placing it in the Poor category. This score is largely influenced by its sodium content, which is 483.33mg per 100g serving. This amount contributes substantially to the daily recommended sodium intake. The product also receives a significant penalty for being classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food. This classification is due to the presence of ingredients like modified cornstarch, enzyme modified egg yolk, and xanthan gum, which are typically found in formulations that undergo extensive industrial processing. While the product contains 0g of added sugar and 0g of trans fat, it also provides minimal beneficial micronutrients, with 0% DV for potassium, iron, magnesium, and zinc. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, which would typically offer fiber and a broader range of micronutrients, CLASSICO Alfredo sauce offers a less nutrient-dense profile, primarily serving as a flavor enhancer rather than a significant source of essential nutrients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in classico basil garlic alfredo pasta sauce, basil garlic alfredo actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Convenient Meal Base
CLASSICO BASIL GARLIC ALFREDO PASTA SAUCE offers a convenient option for quickly preparing a meal. Its ready-to-use format can help reduce meal preparation time, which can be beneficial for individuals with busy schedules. While not a primary source of nutrients, it can serve as a flavorful foundation when combined with more nutrient-dense ingredients like whole-grain pasta, lean proteins, and a variety of vegetables to create a balanced meal.
Source of Calcium
This sauce contains Parmesan cheese, contributing to its calcium content. A 100g serving provides 33mg of calcium, which is 3% of the Daily Value. While not a significant source, this can contribute a small amount to daily calcium intake, which is important for bone health. Combining this sauce with other calcium-rich foods can help meet daily requirements.
Free from Added Sugars
CLASSICO BASIL GARLIC ALFREDO PASTA SAUCE contains 0g of added sugar per 100g serving. This can be a positive aspect for individuals monitoring their sugar intake, as many processed sauces can contribute significant amounts of added sugars to the diet. This formulation choice helps to avoid unnecessary caloric contributions from sweeteners.
CLASSICO BASIL GARLIC ALFREDO PASTA SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 39/100 (Poor), primarily driven by its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
CLASSICO BASIL GARLIC ALFREDO PASTA SAUCE is typically used as a topping for pasta, often in portions of 1/4 cup. It's a quick way to add flavor and creaminess to meals, but its sodium content means portion control is important.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair this sauce with whole-wheat pasta and a generous serving of non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers.
Consider using a smaller portion of the sauce and supplementing with herbs and spices to boost flavor without adding more sodium.
Incorporate a lean protein source such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or baked tofu to create a more balanced and satisfying meal.
Dilute the sauce with a small amount of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to reduce the overall sodium per serving while maintaining a desirable consistency.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains milk and egg as declared allergens, which individuals with sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients should be aware of. The presence of modified cornstarch and xanthan gum contributes to its ultra-processed classification, which some individuals prefer to limit in their diet. The high sodium content (483.33mg per 100g) is a significant factor, and those monitoring their sodium intake for blood pressure management or other health reasons should consume this product in moderation and consider its contribution to their daily sodium limit. There are no artificial sweeteners or colors listed in the ingredients.
CLASSICO BASIL GARLIC ALFREDO PASTA SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 39/100 (Poor). While it contains 0g of added sugar, its high sodium content and classification as an ultra-processed food mean it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It provides minimal micronutrients.
How does CLASSICO Alfredo compare to other pasta sauces?
Compared to a generic tomato-based pasta sauce, CLASSICO Alfredo typically has a higher fat and sodium content and lower fiber. For instance, a brand like Rao's Homemade Marinara Sauce might offer a lower sodium option with more vegetable content, though nutritional profiles vary widely by specific product and brand.
What is 'enzyme modified egg yolk' in the ingredient list?
Enzyme modified egg yolk is an ingredient used to enhance flavor and texture, often contributing to the creamy mouthfeel of sauces. It's a processed ingredient that helps stabilize the emulsion and improve the overall sensory experience of the product.
What is a typical portion size for this Alfredo sauce?
The recommended serving size for CLASSICO BASIL GARLIC ALFREDO PASTA SAUCE is 1/4 cup. Adhering to this portion size is important, especially given the sodium concentration, to manage your overall intake effectively. Larger portions would significantly increase sodium consumption.
Can I use this sauce in recipes other than pasta?
Yes, this Alfredo sauce can be used in various recipes beyond pasta. It can serve as a base for creamy chicken or vegetable bakes, a topping for pizza, or a sauce for roasted vegetables. However, always consider the nutritional impact of the sauce, particularly its sodium, when incorporating it into different dishes.