FoodScore
0/ 100
PoordairyCLASSICO· 1 cup

CLASSICO CREAMY TOMATO SAUCE MADE WITH VINE RIPENED TOMATOES, ITALIAN SAUSAGE AND SHELL PASTA BAKE, SHELLS & ITALIAN SAUSAGE

CLASSICO CREAMY TOMATO SAUCE MADE WITH VINE RIPENED TOMATOES, ITALIAN SAUSAGE AND SHELL PASTA BAKE, SHELLS & ITALIAN SAUSAGE scores 41/100 (Poor) due to its **ultra-processed nature** and moderate sodium content.

  • This CLASSICO product scores 41/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
  • It is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
  • A single serving contains 288.13mg of sodium, contributing to daily intake.
  • Compared to generic dairy products, this SKU offers less protein and fiber.
  • Consider this product for occasional consumption due to its processing and nutrient balance.
  • Scores +8 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0.9g
3% of Daily Value
Protein
5.94g
12% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0.5g
1% of Daily Value
Sodium
288.13mg
13% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (5.9g)+1
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 41

The CLASSICO CREAMY TOMATO SAUCE MADE WITH VINE RIPENED TOMATOES, ITALIAN SAUSAGE AND SHELL PASTA BAKE, SHELLS & ITALIAN SAUSAGE receives a FoodScore of 41/100, which is considered poor. A significant factor in this score is its classification as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food, resulting in a 10-point penalty. While it provides 5.94g of protein per 100g, earning a bonus point, other nutritional aspects contribute to its lower score. The product contains 7.31g of total fat, with 3.2g being saturated fat, and 288.13mg of sodium per 100g, which is a moderate amount. The ingredient list includes Neufchatel cheese and Parmesan cheese, contributing to the dairy classification, but also contains cornstarch and sugar. With only 0.9g of fiber and 0.5g of added sugar per 100g, it doesn't significantly contribute to beneficial fiber intake while still containing some added sugars. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this specific CLASSICO product typically offers a less favorable balance of macronutrients and micronutrients, often with higher sodium and lower fiber content.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in classico creamy tomato sauce made with vine ripened tomatoes, italian sausage and shell pasta bake, shells & italian sausage actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Provides a Source of Protein

This CLASSICO product offers 5.94g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to your daily protein requirements. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and plays a role in satiety. While not a primary protein source, it can help supplement protein intake when included as part of a meal. The protein primarily comes from the Italian sausage and various cheeses listed in the ingredients.

Contains Some Calcium

With 90.87mg of calcium per 100g, providing 7% of the Daily Value, this product contributes a modest amount of this essential mineral. Calcium is vital for bone health and function, as well as nerve and muscle function. While not a high-calcium food, it can be a minor contributor to overall calcium intake, primarily from the Neufchatel and Parmesan cheeses.

Convenient Meal Component

This product offers a convenient option for a quick meal or side dish. Its ready-to-heat format can be useful for individuals with limited time for meal preparation. While convenience is a practical benefit, it's important to consider the overall nutritional profile when incorporating such items regularly into your diet. It can serve as a base to which other nutrient-dense foods can be added.

How to eat it

This CLASSICO pasta bake is typically consumed as a main dish or a hearty side. A common portion size is 1 cup. It's often heated and served directly, fitting into routines where quick meal preparation is desired. Be mindful of portion sizes to manage overall calorie and sodium intake.

To enhance the nutritional value, pair this pasta bake with a large serving of non-starchy vegetables, such as a green salad or steamed broccoli.
Consider adding extra lean protein, like grilled chicken or chickpeas, to boost the protein content per meal and increase satiety.
If you are monitoring sodium intake, balance this meal with other low-sodium foods throughout the day, as this product contains 288.13mg of sodium per 100g.
Things to keep in mind

This CLASSICO product is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), which generally means it contains ingredients not typically found in a home kitchen, such as stabilizers (carob bean, guar, and/or xanthan gum) from the Neufchatel cheese. These ingredients are generally recognized as safe but contribute to the product's processed nature. The product contains common allergens including milk and wheat, which are explicitly listed in the ingredients (Neufchatel cheese, Parmesan cheese, enriched macaroni product). Individuals with sensitivities or allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. While the added sugar content is low at 0.5g per 100g, the overall sodium content of 288.13mg per 100g should be considered, especially for individuals managing blood pressure.

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Reader questions
Is CLASSICO CREAMY TOMATO SAUCE MADE WITH VINE RIPENED TOMATOES, ITALIAN SAUSAGE AND SHELL PASTA BAKE, SHELLS & ITALIAN SAUSAGE healthy?
This CLASSICO product scores 41/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile according to FoodScore's evaluation. It is an ultra-processed food with moderate sodium and fat content. While it provides some protein and calcium, it is not considered a nutrient-dense option for regular consumption.
How does this CLASSICO pasta bake compare to a homemade pasta bake?
Compared to a homemade pasta bake, this CLASSICO product is likely to have a higher degree of processing and potentially higher sodium levels. A homemade version allows for greater control over ingredients, such as using whole wheat pasta, fresh vegetables, and lean protein, which can significantly improve the nutritional balance and fiber content. For example, a homemade dish might use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato puree with added citric acid.
What is 'Neufchatel cheese' in the ingredient list?
Neufchatel cheese is a soft, unripened cheese similar to cream cheese but with a lower fat content. In this product, it contributes to the creamy texture and adds some protein and calcium. Its inclusion, along with stabilizers, is part of why this product is classified as ultra-processed.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pasta bake?
The declared serving size is 1 cup (240g). Sticking to this portion size helps manage calorie, fat, and sodium intake. Consuming larger portions would significantly increase the intake of sodium and saturated fat, making it harder to fit within daily dietary guidelines.
Can I add vegetables to this pasta bake to make it more nutritious?
Yes, adding extra vegetables is an excellent way to boost the nutritional value of this CLASSICO pasta bake. Incorporating fresh or frozen non-starchy vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can increase fiber and micronutrient content without significantly adding calories. This can help create a more balanced meal.
How does this compare to other frozen pasta meals like Stouffer's Lasagna?
Compared to other frozen pasta meals, such as Stouffer's Lasagna, this CLASSICO pasta bake will have its own unique nutritional profile. Both are typically ultra-processed convenience foods with varying levels of sodium, fat, and protein. Consumers should compare the specific nutrient labels, especially for sodium and saturated fat, as these can differ significantly between brands and products in the same category.

Explore more

CategoryAll dairy & alternatives BrandAll CLASSICO SKUs Competitor · 65/100BREAKSTONE'S 2% Lowfat Cottage Cheese Competitor · 65/100FAIRLIFE WHOLE ULTRA-FILTERED MILK Head-to-headCLASSICO CREAMY TOMATO SAUCE MADE WITH VINE RIPENED TOMATOES, ITALIAN SAUSAGE AND SHELL PASTA BAKE, SHELLS & ITALIAN SAUSAGE vs. BREAKSTONE'S 2% Lowfat Cottage Cheese Head-to-headCLASSICO CREAMY TOMATO SAUCE MADE WITH VINE RIPENED TOMATOES, ITALIAN SAUSAGE AND SHELL PASTA BAKE, SHELLS & ITALIAN SAUSAGE vs. FAIRLIFE WHOLE ULTRA-FILTERED MILK Head-to-headCLASSICO CREAMY TOMATO SAUCE MADE WITH VINE RIPENED TOMATOES, ITALIAN SAUSAGE AND SHELL PASTA BAKE, SHELLS & ITALIAN SAUSAGE vs. GOOD CULTURE DOUBLE CREAM CLASSIC COTTAGE CHEESE, DOUBLE CREAM CLASSIC Head-to-headCLASSICO CREAMY TOMATO SAUCE MADE WITH VINE RIPENED TOMATOES, ITALIAN SAUSAGE AND SHELL PASTA BAKE, SHELLS & ITALIAN SAUSAGE vs. GOOD CULTURE DOUBLE CREAM CLASSIC SIMPLY 6% SMALL CURD COTTAGE CHEESE, DOUBLE CREAM CLASSIC

Data & references