DIGIORNO PEPPERONI AND PEPPERS THIN & CRISPY PIZZA, PEPPERONI AND PEPPERS
DIGIORNO PEPPERONI AND PEPPERS THIN & CRISPY PIZZA scores 44/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content.
This DIGIORNO pizza received a FoodScore of 44/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It provides 10.67g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
A significant concern is the 520mg of sodium per 100g, which is high for a snack.
As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it offers less nutritional density than whole-food snack alternatives.
Consider this product for occasional consumption rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores +3 points above the snack category average (41/100 across 2903 foods).
Fiber
1.3g
5% of Daily Value
Protein
10.67g
21% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
520mg
23% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (10.7g)+6
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron, Vitamin A)+6
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (6g)-6
Sodium (520mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 44
The DIGIORNO PEPPERONI AND PEPPERS THIN & CRISPY PIZZA received a FoodScore of 44 out of 100, classifying it as 'Poor'. This score is influenced by several factors. On the positive side, it earns 6 bonus points for its protein content of 10.67g per 100g, which can contribute to satiety. Additionally, it receives another 6 bonus points for providing meaningful amounts of certain micronutrients, specifically 13% DV for calcium, 10% DV for iron, and 37% DV for Vitamin A per 100g. However, significant penalties reduce its overall score. It loses 6 points due to its saturated fat content of 6g per 100g. The sodium level is also a concern, with 520mg per 100g resulting in a 2-point penalty. A major factor in its low score is its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, incurring a 10-point penalty. Ingredients like 'mechanically separated chicken' and 'sodium nitrite' are indicators of its highly processed nature. Compared to a whole-food snack alternative, this product contains more sodium and saturated fat, and fewer naturally occurring beneficial compounds.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in digiorno pepperoni and peppers thin & crispy pizza, pepperoni and peppers actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This DIGIORNO pizza provides 10.67g of protein per 100g, which is a moderate amount for a snack item. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, and consuming adequate protein can help with feelings of fullness, potentially reducing overall calorie intake. The protein comes from sources like low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese and the pepperoni, which includes pork, chicken, and beef.
Contains Essential Micronutrients
The product contributes to your intake of several important micronutrients. Per 100g, it offers 13% DV for calcium, which is vital for bone health and muscle function. It also provides 10% DV for iron, important for oxygen transport, and 37% DV for Vitamin A, which supports vision and immune function. These nutrients are primarily derived from the cheese, enriched wheat flour, and bell peppers.
Convenient Meal or Snack Option
While not a whole food, this pizza can serve as a convenient option for a quick meal or snack when time is limited. Its ease of preparation makes it accessible for individuals with busy schedules. When balanced with other nutrient-dense foods, it can fit into a varied diet, offering a source of calories and some macronutrients.
DIGIORNO PEPPERONI AND PEPPERS THIN & CRISPY PIZZA scores 44/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content.
How to eat it
This frozen pizza is typically consumed as a quick meal or a substantial snack. Consumers often eat half a package, which is the declared serving size, or a whole package depending on hunger levels. It's a convenient option for busy individuals but should be considered in the context of overall dietary intake.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair your pizza serving with a large side salad rich in diverse vegetables and a light vinaigrette.
Consider consuming only half the package and supplementing with a piece of fruit or a handful of nuts to add fiber and healthy fats.
Be mindful of the sodium content; if eating this pizza, choose low-sodium options for other meals throughout the day.
For a more balanced meal, add extra fresh vegetables like spinach or mushrooms on top before baking to boost fiber and micronutrient intake.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that consumers should be aware of. The ingredient list includes 'processed with natural smoke flavor, BHA, BHT, citric acid to help protect flavor' which are preservatives and flavor enhancers. Individuals sensitive to these additives may wish to limit consumption. The product also contains common allergens: milk and wheat, which are clearly declared. Due to its high sodium content of 520mg per 100g, individuals managing blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet should consume this product sparingly. The NOVA 4 classification indicates it is an ultra-processed food, which generally means it has a lower nutritional density compared to less processed alternatives.
Is DIGIORNO PEPPERONI AND PEPPERS THIN & CRISPY PIZZA healthy?
With a FoodScore of 44/100 (Poor), this DIGIORNO pizza is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. It is an ultra-processed food high in saturated fat and sodium, which can contribute to dietary imbalances if consumed frequently. While it offers some protein and micronutrients, these benefits are outweighed by its less desirable nutritional aspects.
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, this DIGIORNO pizza's nutritional profile is similar in terms of being an ultra-processed food with notable levels of saturated fat and sodium. Specific comparisons would require evaluating individual product scores, but generally, frozen pizzas tend to be higher in sodium and saturated fat than homemade versions.
What is 'mechanically separated chicken' in the ingredient list?
'Mechanically separated chicken' is a paste-like poultry product produced by forcing bones with attached edible tissue through a sieve under high pressure. It is a common ingredient in processed meat products like pepperoni, contributing to the overall protein content but also indicating a higher degree of processing.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pizza?
The declared serving size is 0.5 package (half of the pizza). Adhering to this portion size helps manage intake of calories, saturated fat, and sodium. Consuming the entire pizza would double the nutrient values, making it a very high-calorie and high-sodium meal that exceeds typical recommendations for a single serving.
Can I add extra toppings to improve its nutritional value?
Yes, adding extra fresh vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers before baking can help improve the nutritional value. This can increase the fiber and micronutrient content of your meal, making it a slightly more balanced option. Be mindful of adding extra cheese or processed meats, which would further increase saturated fat and sodium.