FoodScore
0/ 100
GoodgrainDE CECCO· 1 cup

DE CECCO FARFALLE TRICOLOR PASTA, FARFALLE TRICOLOR PASTA

DE CECCO FARFALLE TRICOLOR PASTA scores 60/100, indicating a good nutritional profile primarily due to its protein and fiber content, despite being a processed grain product.

  • This DE CECCO pasta scores 60/100 (Good) on the FoodScore scale.
  • It provides 12.5g of protein and 3.61g of fiber per 100g serving.
  • As a NOVA 3 processed food, it contains refined ingredients.
  • It offers 18% DV for iron, contributing to daily micronutrient needs.
  • Pair with vegetables and lean protein to create a balanced 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
9mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
Protein (12.5g)+8
Micronutrients (Iron, Riboflavin)+4
What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5

Why it scores 60

DE CECCO FARFALLE TRICOLOR PASTA achieves a FoodScore of 60 out of 100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score reflects a balance of beneficial nutrients and its classification as a processed food. The product receives positive points for its protein content, providing 12.5g per 100g, which is a significant contribution to daily intake. It also earns points for its fiber content at 3.61g per 100g, which is a moderate amount for a pasta product. Furthermore, the inclusion of fortified micronutrients like iron (3.21mg, 18% DV) and riboflavin adds to its nutritional value. However, a penalty of 5 points is applied because it is classified as NOVA 3, indicating it is a processed food. This classification is due to its ingredients like semolina from wheat, which is a refined grain, and the addition of various vitamins and minerals. While it incorporates tomato concentrate and spinach, these are present in smaller amounts (4.3% and 3.3% respectively). Compared to a generic whole-grain pasta baseline, this DE CECCO pasta has less fiber, as whole-grain options typically offer higher amounts.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in de cecco farfalle tricolor pasta, farfalle tricolor pasta actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Supports Muscle Maintenance and Satiety

This pasta contributes to protein intake with 12.5g per 100g. Protein is an essential macronutrient vital for building and repairing tissues, including muscle. Adequate protein consumption can also help promote feelings of fullness and satiety, which may assist with weight management by reducing overall calorie intake. Incorporating this pasta into meals alongside other protein sources can help meet daily requirements.

Contributes to Iron Intake

DE CECCO FARFALLE TRICOLOR PASTA is a source of iron, providing 3.21mg per 100g, which is 18% of the Daily Value. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport throughout the body as a component of hemoglobin. It also plays a role in energy production and immune function. Including iron-fortified foods like this pasta can help prevent iron deficiency, particularly important for individuals with higher iron needs.

Provides Dietary Fiber

With 3.61g of fiber per 100g, this pasta offers a moderate amount of dietary fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and prevent constipation. It also contributes to satiety and can help manage blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of glucose. While not as high in fiber as whole-grain alternatives, it still contributes to overall daily fiber goals.

How to eat it

Pasta is a versatile staple in many US diets, commonly served as a main course with sauces, vegetables, and proteins. A typical portion size is often around 1 cup cooked, which is roughly equivalent to a 100g dry serving. It's a convenient base for quick and satisfying meals.

To enhance the nutritional value, pair this pasta with a variety of non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Combine with lean protein sources such as chicken breast, fish, or legumes to create a more balanced and filling meal.
Be mindful of portion sizes; a 100g dry serving provides 357 calories, so adjust based on your dietary needs.
Consider using a light, tomato-based sauce instead of creamy, high-fat sauces to reduce overall calorie and saturated fat intake.
Things to keep in mind

This product contains wheat, which is a common allergen. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this pasta. The ingredient list includes semolina from wheat, which is a refined grain. While fortified with several B vitamins and iron, it does not offer the same comprehensive nutrient profile as whole grains. There are no artificial colors or preservatives listed, and the sodium content is very low at 9mg per 100g. Overall, for individuals without wheat allergies, this DE CECCO pasta is generally safe for consumption within a balanced diet.

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Reader questions
Is DE CECCO FARFALLE TRICOLOR PASTA healthy?
DE CECCO FARFALLE TRICOLOR PASTA scores 60/100, placing it in the 'Good' category. It offers a good source of protein (12.5g) and iron (18% DV) per 100g. While it is a processed grain product, it can be part of a balanced dietary pattern when consumed in appropriate portions and paired with nutrient-dense foods.
How does DE CECCO FARFALLE TRICOLOR PASTA compare to whole-grain pasta?
Compared to a generic whole-grain pasta, DE CECCO FARFALLE TRICOLOR PASTA, made from semolina, typically has less dietary fiber. For example, many whole-grain pastas like Barilla Whole Grain Pasta offer significantly more fiber per serving. While DE CECCO is fortified with some micronutrients, whole-grain options naturally retain more vitamins and minerals.
What is the role of 'tomato concentrate' and 'spinach' in this pasta?
Tomato concentrate (4.3%) and spinach (3.3%) are included in DE CECCO FARFALLE TRICOLOR PASTA primarily for color and subtle flavor variation, creating the 'tricolor' effect. While these ingredients do contain some nutrients, their quantities in the pasta are relatively small and do not significantly alter the overall nutritional profile compared to plain pasta.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pasta?
A standard serving size for pasta is often considered to be 1 cup cooked, which is approximately 100g dry, providing 357 calories. However, individual needs vary. To manage calorie intake, consider using a food scale to measure dry pasta or using visual cues like a cupped hand for a single serving. Remember to account for sauces and other additions.
Can this pasta be part of a weight management diet?
Yes, DE CECCO FARFALLE TRICOLOR PASTA can be included in a weight management diet. Its protein and fiber content can contribute to satiety. The key is portion control and mindful pairing. Combine it with plenty of vegetables and lean protein, and choose lighter sauces to keep the overall meal calorie-appropriate.

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Data & references