DIGIORNO PRIMO ITALIAN SAUSAGE ITALIAN SAUSAGE, BELL PEPPERS & CARAMELIZED ONIONS THIN PIZZA, PRIMO ITALIAN SAUSAGE
DIGIORNO PRIMO ITALIAN SAUSAGE THIN PIZZA scores 43/100 (Poor), primarily due to its **ultra-processed nature** and high sodium content.
FoodScore: 43/100 (Poor), indicating a low nutritional quality.
Contains 500mg of sodium per 100g, contributing significantly to the penalty score.
Provides 9.7g of protein per 100g, a positive nutritional aspect.
Classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
Consider pairing with a fresh salad to balance the meal.
Scores -4 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
1.6g
6% of Daily Value
Protein
9.68g
19% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
500mg
22% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (9.7g)+5
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (4.0g)-2
Sodium (500mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 43
DIGIORNO PRIMO ITALIAN SAUSAGE THIN PIZZA receives a FoodScore of 43 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. This score is largely influenced by its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant -10 point penalty. The product also faces penalties for its sodium content, at 500mg per 100g, and its saturated fat, at 4.03g per 100g. On the positive side, it receives bonus points for its protein content, providing 9.68g per 100g, and a small bonus for iron, contributing 12% DV. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this DIGIORNO pizza contains less fiber (1.6g vs. typically higher in whole-grain options) and a higher sodium level. The presence of enriched wheat flour as the primary ingredient also indicates a refined grain base rather than whole grains.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in digiorno primo italian sausage italian sausage, bell peppers & caramelized onions thin pizza, primo italian sausage actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This pizza provides 9.68g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to your daily protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and for satiety. While not a primary protein source for a meal, it can help meet needs when combined with other protein-rich foods.
Iron Contribution
With 2.18mg of iron per 100g, this product contributes 12% of the Daily Value for iron. Iron is a crucial mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy production. This can be a helpful contribution, especially for individuals who may need to increase their iron intake.
Convenient Meal Option
As a frozen pizza, this DIGIORNO product offers a convenient and quick meal solution for busy individuals or families. While its nutritional profile is not optimal, its ease of preparation can be beneficial when time is limited, helping to avoid less healthy fast-food alternatives.
DIGIORNO PRIMO ITALIAN SAUSAGE THIN PIZZA scores 43/100 (Poor), primarily due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content.
How to eat it
Frozen pizzas like this DIGIORNO offering are typically consumed as a quick meal or snack. A common portion is a quarter of the pizza, which aligns with the stated serving size. Be mindful of the overall meal composition when including this product.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair your pizza slice with a large side salad rich in diverse vegetables.
Consider adding extra lean protein, such as grilled chicken breast, to your meal to boost satiety and nutrient intake.
Stick to the recommended serving size of 0.25 pizza to manage intake of sodium and saturated fat.
Opt for whole-grain pizza crusts or homemade versions when possible to increase dietary fiber.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains enriched wheat flour, which is a common allergen (wheat). It also contains milk, another common allergen, due to the low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese. Individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients should avoid consumption. The presence of BHA and BHT as preservatives, while generally recognized as safe, are synthetic antioxidants often found in ultra-processed foods. The high sodium content (500mg per 100g) should be noted by individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with high blood pressure.
Is DIGIORNO PRIMO ITALIAN SAUSAGE THIN PIZZA healthy?
This DIGIORNO pizza scores 43/100, which is considered 'Poor' by FoodScore standards. While it offers some protein and iron, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high sodium content contribute to its lower score. It is not considered a primary source of balanced nutrition.
How does DIGIORNO compare to other frozen pizzas?
Compared to some other frozen pizzas, such as those from brands like California Pizza Kitchen, the nutritional profile can vary significantly. This DIGIORNO pizza has 500mg of sodium per 100g and is an ultra-processed food. Consumers should check the nutrition label of specific products for direct comparisons, particularly for sodium, saturated fat, and fiber content.
What does 'enriched wheat flour' mean in this pizza?
Enriched wheat flour means that certain nutrients, specifically niacin, reduced iron, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid, have been added back to the flour after processing. While it restores some nutrients, it is still a refined grain and not a whole grain.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pizza?
The recommended serving size is 0.25 of the pizza. Adhering to this portion helps manage the intake of calories, sodium, and saturated fat. Consuming larger portions would significantly increase your intake of these components, potentially exceeding daily recommended limits.
Can this pizza be part of a balanced diet?
While it can be included occasionally, this pizza is best consumed in moderation and as part of a meal that balances its nutritional shortcomings. Pairing it with a large portion of vegetables and a lean protein source can help create a more nutritionally complete meal.