DE CECCO ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, FETTUCCINE NO. 6 PASTA
DE CECCO ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, FETTUCCINE NO. 6 PASTA scores 60/100 (Good) due to its contribution of protein and B vitamins, despite being a processed grain product.
This DE CECCO pasta has a FoodScore of 60/100, indicating a good nutritional profile for a processed grain.
It provides 12.5g of protein per 100g serving, contributing to satiety and muscle maintenance.
The product is enriched with iron (18% DV per 100g) and B vitamins, common in enriched pasta.
As a NOVA 3 processed food, it contains refined grains and added micronutrients, differing from whole-grain options.
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, FETTUCCINE NO. 6 PASTA achieves a FoodScore of 60 out of 100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score is primarily driven by its protein content and enrichment with key micronutrients. Per 100g, this pasta provides 12.5g of protein, earning a significant +8 bonus. It also contributes 3.61g of fiber, adding a +3 bonus. The enrichment process, common in many refined grain products, means it provides notable amounts of iron (3.21mg, 18% DV) and B vitamins like riboflavin, contributing a +4 bonus. The ingredient list highlights DURUM (WHEAT) SEMOLINA as the primary component, which is a refined grain, and includes NIACIN, FERROUS LACTATE, THIAMIN MONONITRATE, RIBOFLAVIN, FOLIC ACID for enrichment. As a NOVA class 3 food, it incurs a -5 penalty for being processed. While it doesn't make specific marketing claims like 'high-protein' or 'whole grain,' its nutritional profile is enhanced by the added vitamins and minerals. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this enriched pasta will typically have less fiber but similar protein levels due to the durum wheat base.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in de cecco enriched macaroni product, fettuccine no. 6 pasta actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Satiety
This DE CECCO pasta provides 12.5g of protein per 100g, which is a meaningful contribution to daily protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function. Including protein in meals also helps increase satiety, which can assist with managing portion sizes and overall calorie intake. Pairing this pasta with additional protein sources like lean meats, fish, or legumes can further enhance these benefits.
Contributes to Iron Intake
Enriched pasta like this DE CECCO fettuccine is a source of iron, providing 3.21mg per 100g, which is 18% of the Daily Value. Iron is a vital mineral for oxygen transport in the blood and plays a crucial role in energy production. Adequate iron intake is important for preventing iron deficiency anemia, which can lead to fatigue and weakness. The inclusion of FERROUS LACTATE as an enriching agent helps boost the iron content.
Source of B Vitamins
This product is enriched with several B vitamins, including niacin, thiamin, riboflavin, and folic acid. These vitamins are essential for energy metabolism, helping the body convert food into usable energy. They also play roles in nerve function and red blood cell formation. While not a primary source of all micronutrients, the enrichment process ensures that this pasta contributes to meeting daily requirements for these specific B vitamins.
DE CECCO ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, FETTUCCINE NO. 6 PASTA scores 60/100 (Good) due to its contribution of protein and B vitamins, despite being a processed grain product.
How to eat it
Pasta is a staple in many US diets, commonly served as a main dish with sauces, vegetables, and proteins. A typical serving size is 2 ounces (dry), which expands significantly when cooked. It's a versatile base for various meals.
To create a more balanced meal, pair this pasta with a generous serving of non-starchy vegetables and a lean protein source like chicken, fish, or beans.
Consider using smaller portions of pasta and increasing the volume of vegetables in your dish to boost fiber and micronutrient intake.
Opt for tomato-based sauces over cream-based ones to reduce saturated fat and calorie content, enhancing the overall nutritional value of your meal.
Store dry pasta in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
Things to keep in mind
This DE CECCO pasta is generally well-tolerated. The ingredient list is straightforward, primarily consisting of DURUM (WHEAT) SEMOLINA and enriching vitamins and minerals. As it contains wheat, individuals with celiac disease or a wheat allergy should avoid this product. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives listed. It is also naturally free of added sugars and sodium. For most healthy adults, this product does not present significant cautions beyond those associated with refined grain consumption, such as potentially lower fiber compared to whole-grain alternatives. There are no known interactions with medications or specific populations that would need to exercise unusual caution, apart from those with wheat sensitivities.
Is DE CECCO ENRICHED MACARONI PRODUCT, FETTUCCINE NO. 6 PASTA healthy?
This DE CECCO pasta scores 60/100, indicating it's a good choice within the grain category. It provides protein, fiber, and essential B vitamins and iron due to enrichment. While it's a refined grain product, it can be part of a healthy diet when balanced with vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
How does DE CECCO compare to other pasta brands?
Compared to a generic whole-grain pasta like Barilla Whole Grain Pasta, DE CECCO's enriched fettuccine will typically have less dietary fiber. However, its protein content is comparable, and it provides similar levels of enriched B vitamins and iron. The choice often comes down to preference for texture and specific nutritional goals, such as prioritizing whole grains for higher fiber.
What does 'enriched' mean in the ingredient list?
Enriched means that certain nutrients lost during the processing of the grain have been added back. In this DE CECCO pasta, ingredients like NIACIN, FERROUS LACTATE, THIAMIN MONONITRATE, RIBOFLAVIN, and FOLIC ACID are added to boost its micronutrient profile, particularly B vitamins and iron, which are important for overall health.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pasta?
The recommended serving size is 2 ounces (dry), which yields approximately 1 cup of cooked pasta. This portion provides about 200 calories and 7g of protein. Adjusting portion sizes based on individual caloric needs and activity levels is important, especially when combining with rich sauces or other calorie-dense ingredients.
Can this pasta be part of a weight management diet?
Yes, this pasta can be included in a weight management diet. Its protein content can contribute to satiety. The key is portion control and pairing it with nutrient-dense, low-calorie ingredients like vegetables and lean proteins. Avoiding excessive amounts of high-fat sauces is also beneficial for calorie management.