FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentgrainD'ITALIANO· 2 slices

D'ITALIANO REAL ITALIAN BREAD, REAL ITALIAN

D'ITALIANO REAL ITALIAN BREAD, REAL ITALIAN scores 55/100, placing it in the decent category. Its NOVA 4 classification as **ultra-processed** is the most significant factor impacting its score.

  • This D'ITALIANO bread has a FoodScore of 55/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile.
  • It provides a notable 11.11g of protein per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
  • A primary concern is its NOVA 4 classification, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
  • Compared to generic whole-grain bread, this product has less fiber and higher sodium.
  • Consider pairing with fiber-rich foods to balance its lower fiber content.
  • Scores +8 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
2.2g
8% of Daily Value
Protein
11.11g
22% of Daily Value
Added sugar
2.2g
4% of Daily Value
Sodium
488.89mg
21% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.2g)+1
Protein (11.1g)+7
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron, Folate, Riboflavin)+8
What holds it back
Sodium (488.9mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 55

D'ITALIANO REAL ITALIAN BREAD, REAL ITALIAN achieves a FoodScore of 55 out of 100, landing it in the decent category. The score reflects a balance of some beneficial nutrients and several factors that detract from its overall nutritional quality. On the positive side, the bread receives a significant bonus for its protein content, providing 11.11g per 100g, which is a good contribution for a bread product. It also gains points for its fiber content of 2.2g per 100g and for micronutrients like calcium (15% DV), iron (16% DV), and folate (23% DV). However, several factors reduce its score. The most impactful is its NOVA 4 classification, indicating it is an ultra-processed food, which incurs a 10-point penalty. Additionally, the sodium content is relatively high at 488.89mg per 100g, leading to a penalty. The ingredient list includes monoglycerides and DATEM, which are common emulsifiers in processed breads, and calcium propionate as a preservative, all contributing to its ultra-processed status. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this D'ITALIANO bread contains less fiber and higher sodium, which are key differentiators.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in d'italiano real italian bread, real italian actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Protein

This bread provides 11.11g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to your daily protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and for producing enzymes and hormones. Including protein in meals helps with satiety, which can be beneficial for managing hunger throughout the day. While not a primary protein source, it can complement other protein-rich foods in a meal.

Good Source of Iron and Folate

D'ITALIANO REAL ITALIAN BREAD is a good source of iron, providing 16% of the Daily Value per 100g, and folate, offering 23% of the Daily Value. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and preventing iron-deficiency anemia. Folate is vital for cell division and DNA synthesis, making it particularly important for pregnant individuals and overall cellular health. These micronutrients are added as part of the enrichment process.

Provides Calcium

With 15% of the Daily Value for calcium per 100g, this bread can contribute to your calcium intake. Calcium is well-known for its role in maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also plays a part in muscle function and nerve transmission. While not a dairy product, enriched bread can be one of several dietary sources contributing to your daily calcium needs.

How to eat it

This D'ITALIANO bread is typically consumed as part of a meal or snack, often toasted or used for sandwiches. A common serving is two slices. Be mindful of its sodium content when pairing with other salty foods.

Pair with lean protein and vegetables to create a balanced meal, such as a turkey and veggie sandwich.
To increase fiber, add avocado or leafy greens to your sandwich, as this bread has lower fiber than whole-grain options.
Consider using it as an occasional base for bruschetta with fresh tomatoes and herbs to boost nutrient density.
Be mindful of portion sizes; two slices contribute significantly to daily sodium intake, so moderate consumption is advisable.
Things to keep in mind

Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid D'ITALIANO REAL ITALIAN BREAD as it contains enriched wheat flour and wheat gluten. The ingredient list also includes soy lecithin and sesame seeds, which are common allergens; individuals with soy or sesame allergies should exercise caution. The product contains calcium propionate, a preservative, which some individuals may prefer to limit in their diet. Due to its moderate sodium content, those monitoring their sodium intake for blood pressure management should consider this when incorporating the bread into their diet, especially if consuming multiple servings or pairing with other high-sodium foods.

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Reader questions
Is D'ITALIANO REAL ITALIAN BREAD, REAL ITALIAN healthy?
D'ITALIANO REAL ITALIAN BREAD, REAL ITALIAN scores 55/100, placing it in the 'decent' category. It provides some beneficial nutrients like protein, iron, and folate. However, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content are factors to consider for overall dietary health. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with nutrient-dense foods.
How does D'ITALIANO REAL ITALIAN BREAD compare to other breads?
Compared to a generic whole-grain bread, D'ITALIANO REAL ITALIAN BREAD, REAL ITALIAN has less fiber and higher sodium. For example, a typical whole-wheat bread like Pepperidge Farm 100% Whole Wheat often provides more fiber per serving. This D'ITALIANO product is enriched, meaning some nutrients are added back after processing, but it does not offer the same whole-grain benefits.
What is 'enriched wheat flour' and why is it used?
Enriched wheat flour is refined flour where certain nutrients lost during processing, such as iron, niacin, thiamin, riboflavin, and folic acid, are added back. This process aims to restore some nutritional value to the flour. While it provides essential micronutrients, it lacks the fiber and other beneficial compounds found in whole wheat flour.
What is a reasonable portion size for this bread?
A standard serving size for D'ITALIANO REAL ITALIAN BREAD is two slices. This portion contributes to your daily calorie, protein, and sodium intake. When planning your meals, consider the nutritional contribution of these two slices in the context of your overall dietary goals, especially regarding sodium and fiber.
Does this bread contain whole grains?
No, D'ITALIANO REAL ITALIAN BREAD, REAL ITALIAN does not primarily contain whole grains. The first ingredient is 'enriched wheat flour,' which is a refined grain. While it provides some nutrients due to enrichment, it does not offer the same comprehensive nutritional benefits, such as higher fiber content, found in products made with 100% whole wheat flour.
Is the sugar content a concern in this bread?
This bread contains 2.2g of added sugar per 100g. While not excessively high compared to some other processed foods, it contributes to your daily added sugar intake. For a serving of two slices, the added sugar amount is relatively small. However, it's always beneficial to be mindful of added sugars from all sources in your diet.

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