DIGIORNO ITALIAN SAUSAGE & MOZZARELLA CHEESE ORIGINAL RISING CRUST PIZZA, ITALIAN SAUSAGE
DIGIORNO ITALIAN SAUSAGE & MOZZARELLA CHEESE ORIGINAL RISING CRUST PIZZA scores 47/100 (Decent), primarily due to its **ultra-processed nature** and contributions from saturated fat and sodium.
This DIGIORNO pizza has a FoodScore of 47/100, indicating it is a decent choice.
It provides 11.19g of protein per 100g, a notable strength.
A serving contains 551.75mg of sodium, which is a significant amount.
As a NOVA 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed, similar to many frozen pizzas.
Consider this product for occasional consumption rather than a daily staple.
Scores +14 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0.7g
3% of Daily Value
Protein
11.19g
22% of Daily Value
Added sugar
2.1g
4% of Daily Value
Sodium
551.75mg
24% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (11.2g)+7
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (4.2g)-2
Sodium (551.8mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 47
The DIGIORNO ITALIAN SAUSAGE & MOZZARELLA CHEESE ORIGINAL RISING CRUST PIZZA receives a FoodScore of 47 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of some positive nutritional aspects with several areas for moderation. On the positive side, the product provides a good amount of protein, at 11.19g per 100g, contributing to satiety. It also offers some micronutrients, specifically 12% DV for calcium and 10% DV for iron. However, several factors reduce its overall score. It contains 4.2g of saturated fat per 100g, which is a penalty. The sodium content is also high at 551.75mg per 100g, another penalty factor. Furthermore, the product is classified as a NOVA 4 food, meaning it is ultra-processed, which incurs a significant penalty of 10 points. Ingredients like enriched wheat flour and sugar contribute to its processed nature. When compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which would typically be less processed and lower in sodium, this pizza presents a different nutritional profile, characteristic of a prepared meal.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in digiorno italian sausage & mozzarella cheese original rising crust pizza, italian sausage actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This DIGIORNO pizza provides 11.19g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to your daily protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and for feeling full after a meal. Including protein in meals can help manage hunger and support overall body functions. While not a primary protein source for all meals, it can be a component of a meal that meets protein needs.
Provides Calcium and Iron
The product offers 12% of the Daily Value for calcium and 10% for iron per 100g. Calcium is crucial for bone health and various bodily functions, while iron is vital for oxygen transport and energy production. These micronutrients, derived from ingredients like mozzarella cheese and enriched wheat flour, contribute to meeting daily recommended intakes, though other foods may offer higher concentrations.
Convenient Meal Option
As a frozen pizza, this DIGIORNO product offers convenience for quick meals. It can be a practical option for busy individuals or families when time for meal preparation is limited. While its nutritional profile suggests moderation, its ease of preparation can help ensure a meal is consumed, rather than skipping one entirely, which can be beneficial in certain circumstances.
DIGIORNO ITALIAN SAUSAGE & MOZZARELLA CHEESE ORIGINAL RISING CRUST PIZZA scores 47/100 (Decent), primarily due to its ultra-processed nature and contributions from saturated fat and sodium.
How to eat it
Frozen pizzas like this DIGIORNO SKU are typically consumed as a main meal, often for lunch or dinner. A common pitfall is consuming the entire pizza, which can lead to excessive intake of calories, sodium, and saturated fat. Portion control is key.
Consider pairing a smaller portion of pizza with a large side salad to increase fiber and vegetable intake.
Limit consumption to occasional meals rather than a regular part of your diet due to its ultra-processed nature and higher sodium content.
To manage sodium intake, balance this meal with other foods that are naturally low in sodium throughout the day.
If sharing, divide the pizza into appropriate serving sizes to help with portion control and prevent overconsumption.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several common allergens, including wheat (from enriched wheat flour and wheat gluten) and milk (from low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this product. The high sodium content (551.75mg per 100g) is a consideration for individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension or kidney concerns. While the added sugar content is relatively low at 2.1g per 100g, the product's overall ultra-processed classification suggests a need for moderation within a balanced diet. There are no specific interactions or unique additive concerns beyond those typically found in similar frozen pizza products.
Is DIGIORNO ITALIAN SAUSAGE & MOZZARELLA CHEESE ORIGINAL RISING CRUST PIZZA healthy?
With a FoodScore of 47/100, this DIGIORNO pizza is considered 'Decent.' It provides some protein and micronutrients like calcium and iron. However, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its higher levels of saturated fat and sodium suggest it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does DIGIORNO compare to other frozen pizzas?
Compared to many other frozen pizzas on the market, such as a Red Baron Classic Crust Pepperoni Pizza, the DIGIORNO ITALIAN SAUSAGE & MOZZARELLA CHEESE ORIGINAL RISING CRUST PIZZA has a similar nutritional profile in terms of being ultra-processed and containing comparable levels of saturated fat and sodium. Specific comparisons would require evaluating individual product scores, but generally, frozen pizzas tend to be higher in these components than homemade alternatives.
What is 'enriched wheat flour' and why is it in this pizza?
Enriched wheat flour is wheat flour that has had certain B vitamins (niacin, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid) and iron added back after processing. It is a common ingredient in many baked goods and processed foods, including this pizza, to restore nutrients lost during milling and to help meet public health fortification guidelines.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pizza?
The declared serving size is 0.167 Pizza, which is approximately one-sixth of the pizza. To adhere to this, it's important to measure or visually estimate your portion. Pairing this with a large salad or vegetables can make a smaller portion more satisfying and nutritionally complete.
Can I freeze this pizza again if it thaws slightly?
Generally, it is not recommended to refreeze pizza that has thawed completely, as this can affect food safety and product quality. If the pizza has only partially thawed and still contains ice crystals, it might be safe to refreeze, but the texture and taste may be compromised. Always follow the storage instructions on the packaging.