DE CECCO MEZZI RIGATONI NO. 26 PASTA scores 60/100 (Good) on FoodScore. Its primary nutritional benefit comes from its **protein and fiber content**, along with fortification with essential micronutrients.
DE CECCO MEZZI RIGATONI NO. 26 PASTA earns a FoodScore of 60/100 (Good).
It provides 12.5g of protein and 3.61g of fiber per 100g serving.
This product is classified as NOVA class 3 (processed), indicating some level of industrial processing.
Compared to generic whole-grain pasta, this product has less fiber but similar protein.
Pair with vegetables and lean protein sources to create a more 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
0mg
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 MEZZI RIGATONI NO. 26 PASTA achieves a FoodScore of 60 out of 100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score is primarily driven by its beneficial macronutrient profile and fortification. The product receives a significant bonus for its protein content, providing 12.5g per 100g, which contributes to satiety and muscle maintenance. Fiber also adds to the score, with 3.61g per 100g, supporting digestive health. Additionally, the fortification with micronutrients like iron (3.21mg, 18% DV) and riboflavin contributes positively to its score. The ingredient list includes DURUM (WHEAT) SEMOLINA, which is a refined grain, and several B vitamins (niacin, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid) and ferrous lactate, indicating enrichment. The main penalty for this product comes from its NOVA class 3 designation, meaning it is a processed food, which subtracts 5 points. While it offers valuable nutrients, it does not match the fiber content of a generic whole-grain pasta, which would typically score higher due to its intact grain structure.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in de cecco mezzi rigatoni no. 26 pasta actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Satiety
DE CECCO MEZZI RIGATONI NO. 26 PASTA provides 12.5g of protein per 100g serving. Protein is a crucial macronutrient for building and repairing tissues, including muscle. Including adequate protein in meals can also contribute to a feeling of fullness, which may help with managing portion sizes and overall calorie intake. This makes it a suitable base for meals when combined with other protein-rich ingredients.
Contributes to Digestive Health
With 3.61g of fiber per 100g, this pasta contributes to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for maintaining a healthy digestive system, promoting regular bowel movements, and supporting gut microbiota. While not as high in fiber as whole-grain alternatives, it still offers a measurable amount that can be part of a balanced diet when paired with other fiber-rich foods like vegetables and legumes.
Source of Essential Micronutrients
This DE CECCO pasta is fortified with several important micronutrients. It provides 3.21mg of iron (18% DV) per 100g, which is vital for oxygen transport and energy metabolism. The addition of B vitamins like niacin, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid supports various bodily functions, including energy production and cell growth. These added nutrients enhance the nutritional profile of the pasta beyond its base ingredients.
DE CECCO MEZZI RIGATONI NO. 26 PASTA scores 60/100 (Good) on FoodScore. Its primary nutritional benefit comes from its protein and fiber content, along with fortification with essential micronutrients.
How to eat it
Pasta is a versatile staple in many US diets, commonly served as a main dish or side. A typical serving size for this DE CECCO pasta is 0.75 cup cooked. It's often paired with sauces, vegetables, and protein. The key to a balanced meal is to focus on portion control and nutrient-dense additions.
To enhance the nutritional value, combine this pasta with a generous serving of non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers.
Pair with lean protein sources such as grilled chicken, fish, or legumes to create a complete and satisfying meal.
Consider using a tomato-based sauce with minimal added sugar and sodium, or a homemade pesto, to keep the overall dish balanced.
For a more filling meal with increased fiber, try mixing this pasta with an equal portion of whole-wheat pasta or adding lentils to your sauce.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains wheat, which is a common allergen. Individuals with celiac disease or a wheat allergy should avoid this product. As a processed grain product, it is lower in fiber compared to its whole-grain counterparts, which might be a consideration for those aiming to maximize their fiber intake. The ingredient list is straightforward, primarily consisting of enriched durum semolina and vitamins. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or problematic preservatives listed. Overall, for individuals without wheat sensitivities, this DE CECCO pasta is a relatively benign food choice in terms of cautions, provided it is consumed as part of a balanced diet.
DE CECCO MEZZI RIGATONI NO. 26 PASTA scores 60/100 (Good) on FoodScore. It provides a good source of protein (12.5g/100g) and is fortified with iron and B vitamins. While it offers nutritional benefits, it is a refined grain product and is best consumed as part of a balanced diet that includes plenty of vegetables and lean proteins.
How does DE CECCO MEZZI RIGATONI NO. 26 PASTA compare to other pasta brands?
Compared to a generic whole-grain pasta, DE CECCO MEZZI RIGATONI NO. 26 PASTA has less fiber (3.61g vs. typically 6-8g for whole grain) but similar protein content. Brands like Barilla Whole Grain pasta would offer a higher fiber count. This DE CECCO product is a good option for enriched refined pasta, but not a direct substitute for whole-grain varieties if fiber is the primary goal.
What is 'DURUM (WHEAT) SEMOLINA'?
DURUM (WHEAT) SEMOLINA is a coarse, purified wheat middling of durum wheat. It is a refined grain, meaning the bran and germ have been removed, which results in a finer texture and longer shelf life but also removes some fiber and nutrients. This product is then enriched with vitamins and iron to restore some of the lost nutrients.
What is a recommended portion size for this pasta?
The recommended serving size for DE CECCO MEZZI RIGATONI NO. 26 PASTA is 0.75 cup (cooked). It's important to measure your portion, especially if you are monitoring carbohydrate intake or calories. Pairing this portion with a large serving of vegetables and a lean protein can help create a nutritionally complete meal.
Can this pasta be part of a weight management diet?
Yes, this pasta can be included in a weight management diet, but portion control is key. At 357.14 calories per 100g, it's a calorie-dense food. Focus on combining it with low-calorie, high-volume foods like vegetables and lean proteins to create a satisfying meal without excessive calories. The protein and fiber content can contribute to satiety.