DIGIORNO MEATBALL MARINARA ITALIAN STYLE MEATBALLS WITH MOZZARELLA CHEESE OVER A MARINARA SAUCE ITALIAN STYLE FAVORITES PIZZA, MEATBALL MARINARA
DIGIORNO MEATBALL MARINARA PIZZA scores 46/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **ultra-processed NOVA class 4** designation and elevated sodium content, despite providing a notable amount of protein.
This DIGIORNO pizza received a FoodScore of 46/100, categorized as Decent.
It provides 10.61g of protein per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
A significant concern is the 515.15mg of sodium per 100g, which is high.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed.
Portion control is important due to the sodium content in this pizza.
Scores +13 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
1.5g
5% of Daily Value
Protein
10.61g
21% of Daily Value
Added sugar
2.3g
5% of Daily Value
Sodium
515.15mg
22% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (10.6g)+6
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
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What holds it back
Sodium (515.1mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 46
The DIGIORNO MEATBALL MARINARA PIZZA achieves a FoodScore of 46 out of 100, placing it in the Decent category. This score is influenced by several factors. On the positive side, the product receives a bonus for its protein content, providing 10.61g per 100g, which can contribute to satiety. It also receives a small bonus for iron, with 1.89mg per 100g (11% DV). However, significant penalties impact the overall score. The product is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which incurs a substantial penalty of -10 points. Additionally, the sodium content is high at 515.15mg per 100g, leading to a -2 point penalty. The presence of enriched wheat flour and added sugar (2.3g per 100g) also contributes to its processed nature. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which often has a simpler ingredient profile and lower processing, this DIGIORNO pizza presents a more complex nutritional landscape with higher sodium and processing levels.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in digiorno meatball marinara italian style meatballs with mozzarella cheese over a marinara sauce italian style favorites pizza, meatball marinara actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This DIGIORNO pizza provides 10.61g of protein per 100g, which is a meaningful contribution to daily protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions. Including adequate protein in meals can help with satiety, potentially reducing overall calorie intake later in the day. For individuals looking for a convenient meal option that offers a protein boost, this product can serve that purpose when balanced with other nutrient-dense foods.
Provides Iron
The DIGIORNO MEATBALL MARINARA PIZZA contains 1.89mg of iron per 100g, which accounts for 11% of the Daily Value. Iron is a vital mineral for oxygen transport in the blood and plays a role in energy metabolism. While not a primary source, this product can contribute to meeting daily iron requirements, especially for individuals who may struggle to consume enough iron from other dietary sources. It's a convenient way to add some iron to a meal.
Convenient Meal Option
As a frozen pizza, this product offers significant convenience for meal preparation. For individuals with limited time for cooking, it provides a quick option to put a meal on the table. While it is an ultra-processed food, its ease of preparation can be beneficial in situations where a home-cooked meal is not feasible, helping to prevent skipping meals entirely. It can be part of a varied diet when paired with fresh components.
DIGIORNO MEATBALL MARINARA PIZZA scores 46/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its ultra-processed NOVA class 4 designation and elevated sodium content, despite providing a notable amount of protein.
How to eat it
Frozen pizzas like DIGIORNO MEATBALL MARINARA are typically consumed as a main meal, often for lunch or dinner. A common pitfall is consuming the entire pizza as a single serving, which can lead to excessive intake of sodium and calories. Portion control and pairing with fresh ingredients are key.
Consider serving a smaller portion of the pizza, such as one or two slices, rather than the entire pie.
Pair your pizza with a large side salad rich in non-starchy vegetables to add fiber and micronutrients.
To balance the meal, include a serving of fresh fruit for dessert to increase vitamin and mineral intake.
Limit other high-sodium foods in the same meal or day to manage overall sodium intake.
Use this pizza as an occasional meal option rather than a regular dietary staple due to its ultra-processed nature.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware that this DIGIORNO pizza is classified as NOVA class 4, meaning it is ultra-processed. The ingredient list includes enriched wheat flour, which has undergone significant processing, and several forms of added sugar. Individuals with allergies should note the presence of common allergens such as wheat, milk, and soy, as indicated by ingredients like 'enriched wheat flour,' 'low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese,' and 'hydrolyzed corn and soy protein.' The high sodium content (515.15mg per 100g) is a concern for individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a lower-sodium diet. While generally safe for most, moderation is advised for those sensitive to processed foods.
This DIGIORNO pizza has a FoodScore of 46/100, placing it in the Decent category. It provides protein and some iron, but it is also an ultra-processed food with a high sodium content. While it can fit into a balanced diet occasionally, it's not a primary source of whole, unprocessed nutrients. It's best consumed in moderation and paired with fresh vegetables.
How does DIGIORNO MEATBALL MARINARA PIZZA compare to other frozen pizzas?
Compared to many other frozen pizzas on the market, such as those from Totino's or Red Baron, this DIGIORNO pizza's nutritional profile is broadly similar in terms of its ultra-processed nature and often high sodium content. Specific nutrient values will vary by SKU, but most frozen pizzas share common characteristics of being convenient, but higher in sodium and processed ingredients. Always check the nutrition facts for direct comparisons.
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 being removed during processing. It's a common ingredient in many baked goods and processed foods, including this pizza, to improve its nutritional content after refining. However, it still contributes to the product's ultra-processed classification.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pizza?
The declared serving size is 0.167 of the pizza, which is roughly one large slice. To manage calorie and sodium intake, it's advisable to stick to this portion or even less, especially if you are pairing it with other foods. Consuming the entire pizza would mean a significantly higher intake of calories, fat, and sodium than the per-serving values.
Can I add vegetables to this pizza to make it more nutritious?
Yes, adding extra vegetables is an excellent way to boost the nutritional value of this DIGIORNO pizza. You can top it with fresh bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach before baking. This will increase the fiber, vitamins, and minerals in your meal, helping to balance the overall nutritional profile of the ultra-processed pizza base.