DE CECCO ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT scores 64/100 (Good), primarily driven by its **enrichment with iron and folate**, which significantly boosts its micronutrient profile.
DE CECCO ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT scores 64/100, placing it in the Good category.
It provides 14.3g of protein and 3.61g of fiber per 100g, contributing to satiety.
The product is enriched with iron (17% DV) and folate (50% DV) per 100g serving.
As a NOVA 3 processed food, it is less ideal than its whole-grain equivalent.
Pair with vegetables and lean protein to create a more balanced meal.
Scores +17 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
3.61g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
14.3g
29% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
Protein (14.3g)+10
Micronutrients (Iron, Folate, Riboflavin)+6
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What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 64
DE CECCO ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT achieves a FoodScore of 64 out of 100, categorized as 'Good'. This score reflects its nutritional contributions, particularly in protein and micronutrients, balanced against its processed nature. The product earns significant bonuses for its protein content, providing 14.3g per 100g, which is a meaningful contribution to daily protein intake. It also receives points for its fiber content, with 3.61g per 100g. A key positive factor is the enrichment process, which adds essential micronutrients: 3.04mg of iron (17% DV) and 50% DV of folate per 100g, along with riboflavin, thiamine mononitrate, and niacin. These additions help address common nutrient deficiencies. However, as a NOVA 3 classified food, indicating it is processed, a penalty of 5 points is applied. While DE CECCO macaroni provides valuable nutrients, it is important to note that a generic whole-grain pasta equivalent would typically offer higher fiber content and a broader spectrum of naturally occurring micronutrients due to the inclusion of the entire grain kernel, making it a nutritionally superior choice in comparison.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in de cecco enriched macaroni product actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Red Blood Cell Formation and Energy
This DE CECCO macaroni is fortified with iron, providing 17% of the Daily Value per 100g. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for the formation of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to all parts of the body. Adequate iron intake helps prevent iron-deficiency anemia, which can lead to fatigue and weakness. Consuming foods rich in iron, like this pasta, can contribute to maintaining healthy energy levels and overall vitality.
Contributes to Fetal Development and Cell Growth
The product is an excellent source of folate, supplying 50% of the Daily Value per 100g. Folate, a B vitamin, is vital for cell growth and development, particularly important during periods of rapid growth such as pregnancy. Adequate folate intake before and during early pregnancy is critical for preventing neural tube defects in infants. For all individuals, folate plays a role in DNA synthesis and repair, supporting overall cellular health and function.
Provides a Source of Plant-Based Protein
With 14.3g of protein per 100g, DE CECCO ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT offers a significant amount of plant-based protein. Protein is fundamental for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting immune function. Including protein-rich foods in meals can contribute to satiety, helping to manage appetite. This pasta can serve as a versatile base for meals when combined with other protein sources like legumes, vegetables, or lean meats.
DE CECCO ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT scores 64/100 (Good), primarily driven by its enrichment with iron and folate, which significantly boosts its micronutrient profile.
How to eat it
Enriched macaroni is a staple in many US households, commonly served as a main dish or a side. It's often paired with sauces, meats, and vegetables. A typical serving size is about 2 ounces (dry), which expands significantly when cooked. The primary pitfall is often the high-calorie sauces or large portions.
To enhance the nutritional value, combine your DE CECCO macaroni with plenty of non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers.
Pair with a lean protein source such as chicken breast, fish, or legumes to create a more balanced and satisfying meal.
Be mindful of portion sizes; a standard serving of dry pasta is approximately 56g (2 ounces), which is about 0.125 of the box dry for this product.
Opt for tomato-based sauces over cream-based ones to reduce saturated fat and calorie intake.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains durum wheat semolina, meaning it is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. While enriched, it is not a whole-grain product, so individuals looking to maximize fiber intake should consider whole wheat alternatives. The ingredient list is relatively straightforward, without artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives commonly found in other processed foods. There are no declared allergens beyond wheat. Individuals with specific dietary restrictions related to wheat should avoid this product. Otherwise, it is generally safe for consumption within a balanced diet.
DE CECCO ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT scores 64/100, placing it in the 'Good' category. It provides valuable nutrients like protein, fiber, iron, and folate due to enrichment. While it's a processed grain product, it can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation and paired with nutrient-dense foods.
How does DE CECCO compare to other pasta brands?
Compared to a generic whole wheat pasta, DE CECCO ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT will typically have less fiber and potentially fewer naturally occurring micronutrients. However, its enrichment with iron and folate makes it a more nutrient-dense option than many unenriched refined pastas, such as some store-brand white pastas. For example, Barilla's classic semolina pasta also offers enrichment.
What is durum wheat semolina?
Durum wheat semolina is a coarse, purified wheat middling of durum wheat, primarily used in making pasta. It's known for its high protein content and strong gluten, which gives pasta its characteristic firm texture when cooked. It is a refined grain, meaning the bran and germ have been removed.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pasta?
A reasonable portion size for DE CECCO ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT is typically around 56 grams (2 ounces) dry, which yields about 1 cup cooked. This portion provides a good balance of carbohydrates and protein without excessive calories. Adjust based on your individual caloric and nutritional needs.
Does this pasta contain any added sugar or sodium?
No, DE CECCO ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT contains 0g of added sugar and 0mg of sodium per 100g serving. This makes it a suitable base for meals where you want to control the amount of added sugars and sodium from sauces and other ingredients.