DE CECCO ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, ELBOWS PASTA scores 60/100 (Good) due to its contribution of protein and B vitamins, despite being a processed grain product.
DE CECCO Elbows Pasta has a FoodScore of 60/100, indicating a good nutritional profile.
It provides 12.5g of protein per 100g serving, a notable strength for a pasta product.
The product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), which incurs a -5 point penalty.
Compared to whole-grain pasta, it lacks the higher fiber content typically found in the baseline.
Pair with vegetables and lean protein to create a more nutritionally complete meal.
Scores +13 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
3.61g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
12.5g
25% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
Protein (12.5g)+8
Micronutrients (Iron, Riboflavin)+4
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What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 60
DE CECCO ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, ELBOWS PASTA achieves a FoodScore of 60 out of 100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score reflects its positive contributions from protein and certain micronutrients, balanced against its classification as a processed food. The product receives a significant bonus of +8 points for its protein content, delivering 12.5g per 100g, which is a meaningful amount for a grain product. An additional +3 points are awarded for its fiber content of 3.61g per 100g, contributing to digestive health. Furthermore, the enrichment with micronutrients such as iron and riboflavin adds +4 points to its score. However, as a NOVA 3 classified processed food, it incurs a -5 point penalty. The ingredient list, featuring DURUM (WHEAT) SEMOLINA along with added vitamins like niacin and folic acid, indicates a refined grain product. While enriched, it does not offer the same whole grain benefits as its generic whole-grain equivalent, which would typically provide higher fiber and a broader spectrum of naturally occurring micronutrients.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in de cecco enriched macaroni product, elbows pasta actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Satiety
DE CECCO Elbows Pasta provides 12.5g of protein per 100g, which is a substantial amount for a pasta product. Protein is essential for the repair and growth of muscle tissue, and it also plays a role in satiety, helping you feel fuller for longer. Including this pasta as part of a meal with other protein sources can contribute to your daily protein needs and help manage hunger.
Contributes to Energy Metabolism
This enriched macaroni product contains B vitamins like niacin, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid. These B vitamins are crucial for converting food into energy and supporting various metabolic processes in the body. The enrichment helps ensure that these essential nutrients, often lost during the refining process of grains, are replenished.
Source of Essential Iron
DE CECCO Elbows Pasta is a source of iron, providing 3.21mg per 100g, which is 18% of the Daily Value. Iron is a vital mineral necessary for oxygen transport in the blood and for preventing iron-deficiency anemia. Incorporating iron-enriched foods like this pasta can help meet daily iron requirements, particularly for individuals who may be at risk of deficiency.
DE CECCO ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, ELBOWS PASTA scores 60/100 (Good) due to its contribution of protein and B vitamins, despite being a processed grain product.
How to eat it
Elbow pasta is a versatile staple in many US households, commonly used in dishes like macaroni and cheese, pasta salads, or as a side with sauces. A typical serving size is 0.5 cup cooked, but it's easy to consume larger portions, especially in casseroles. Be mindful of portion sizes and what you pair it with.
Combine DE CECCO Elbows Pasta with a variety of non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers to increase fiber and nutrient intake.
Pair with lean protein sources such as grilled chicken, fish, or legumes to create a more balanced and satisfying meal.
When making macaroni and cheese, use lower-fat dairy products and incorporate pureed vegetables like butternut squash to boost nutrition.
Consider using DE CECCO Elbows Pasta in cold pasta salads with a vinegar-based dressing instead of creamy, high-fat options.
Things to keep in mind
The ingredient list for DE CECCO ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, ELBOWS PASTA is relatively straightforward, primarily consisting of DURUM (WHEAT) SEMOLINA and added B vitamins and iron. As a wheat-based product, it contains gluten and is therefore not suitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives listed. The product is low in sodium and contains no added sugars or trans fats, which are positive attributes. Consumers with specific allergies should note the presence of wheat. Overall, for individuals without wheat allergies, this product presents minimal specific cautions beyond general dietary considerations for refined grains.
Is DE CECCO ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, ELBOWS PASTA healthy?
DE CECCO Elbows Pasta scores 60/100, placing it in the 'Good' category. It provides a good source of protein and is enriched with essential B vitamins and iron, contributing to overall nutrient intake. While it is a processed grain, it can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in appropriate portions and paired with nutrient-dense foods like vegetables and lean proteins.
How does DE CECCO Elbows Pasta compare to whole-wheat pasta?
Compared to a generic whole-wheat pasta, DE CECCO Elbows Pasta, being made from enriched durum semolina, will typically have less dietary fiber. Whole-wheat pasta retains more of the grain's bran and germ, offering higher fiber and a broader range of naturally occurring micronutrients. For example, Barilla Whole Grain pasta generally offers more fiber per serving.
What does 'enriched' mean in this pasta?
Enriched means that certain nutrients lost during the processing of the grain are added back. In DE CECCO Elbows Pasta, this includes niacin, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid, along with ferrous lactate (iron). This process helps to restore some of the nutritional value of the refined grain.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pasta?
A standard serving size for DE CECCO Elbows Pasta is 0.5 cup cooked. This portion provides a specific amount of calories, protein, and carbohydrates. Being mindful of this recommended serving size can help you manage your overall calorie and carbohydrate intake, especially if you are monitoring these for dietary reasons.
Can I eat this pasta if I'm trying to lose weight?
Yes, DE CECCO Elbows Pasta can be included in a weight loss diet. The key is portion control and what you combine it with. Its protein content can contribute to satiety. Focus on smaller portions and pair it with plenty of vegetables and lean protein to create a filling, lower-calorie meal.