DIGIORNO Rising Crust Pepperoni Pizza scores 48/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **ultra-processed nature** and high sodium content, despite providing some protein and micronutrients.
This DIGIORNO pizza received a FoodScore of 48/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile.
A serving provides 11.43g of protein, contributing to satiety.
The product is high in sodium, with 679.29mg per 100g, and is classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed).
Compared to a home-cooked pizza, this SKU contains more processed ingredients and higher sodium.
Consider this product for occasional consumption, mindful of portion size and sodium intake.
Scores +2 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 21 foods).
Fiber
1.4g
5% of Daily Value
Protein
11.43g
23% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
679.29mg
30% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (11.4g)+7
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron, Vitamin A)+6
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (4.3g)-2
Sodium (679.3mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 48
The DIGIORNO Rising Crust Pepperoni Pizza achieved a FoodScore of 48 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of some beneficial nutrients and several nutritional drawbacks. On the positive side, the pizza provides a notable 11.43g of protein per 100g, which contributes positively to its score. It also offers micronutrients like calcium (11% DV) and iron (11% DV), along with a significant 24% DV of Vitamin A. However, several factors reduce its overall score. The product contains 4.29g of saturated fat per 100g, which incurs a penalty. A more substantial penalty is applied due to its high sodium content, at 679.29mg per 100g. Furthermore, as a NOVA class 4 food, meaning it is ultra-processed, it receives a significant penalty of -10 points. Ingredients such as mechanically separated chicken and sodium nitrite are indicative of its processed nature. When compared to a home-cooked pizza made with whole ingredients, the DIGIORNO pizza generally contains higher levels of sodium and saturated fat, and lacks the fiber typically found in fresh vegetables.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in digiorno rising crust pepperoni pizza actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This DIGIORNO pizza provides 11.43g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to your daily protein needs. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and it plays a role in satiety, helping you feel full. Including protein in meals can support overall dietary balance. This product can be a convenient way to add protein to a meal, especially when time for meal preparation is limited.
Provides Essential Micronutrients
The pizza contributes to your intake of several important micronutrients. Per 100g, it offers 11% DV for calcium and iron, and 24% DV for Vitamin A. Calcium is vital for bone health, while iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood. Vitamin A supports vision and immune function. While not a primary source for all micronutrients, these contributions can supplement a varied diet.
Convenient Meal Option
For individuals with limited time for cooking, this pizza offers a convenient and quick meal solution. Its prepared nature means minimal effort is required for preparation, making it suitable for busy schedules. While not a substitute for home-cooked meals, it can serve as an occasional option when convenience is a priority, helping to avoid less nutritious fast-food alternatives.
DIGIORNO Rising Crust Pepperoni Pizza scores 48/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its ultra-processed nature and high sodium content, despite providing some protein and micronutrients.
How to eat it
DiGiorno Rising Crust Pepperoni Pizza is typically consumed as a main meal, often for lunch or dinner. A common portion is one-sixth of the pizza, but it's easy to overconsume due to its palatability. It's a convenient option for quick meals, but its nutritional profile suggests moderation.
To enhance the nutritional value, pair your pizza slice with a large side salad rich in diverse vegetables and a light vinaigrette.
Consider consuming a smaller portion, such as one-eighth of the pizza, and supplementing with lean protein sources like grilled chicken or beans.
Balance the high sodium content by ensuring your other meals throughout the day are low in sodium and rich in potassium-rich foods like fruits and vegetables.
Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to your pizza before baking to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in DiGiorno Rising Crust Pepperoni Pizza, which is 679.29mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those on sodium-restricted diets should consume this product in moderation. The ingredient list includes enriched wheat flour, which contains gluten, and the product contains milk, making it unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or dairy allergies. The presence of sodium nitrite as a preservative is common in processed meats like pepperoni. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals prefer to limit intake of nitrites. The product is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), indicating it contains ingredients and additives not typically found in a home kitchen.
DIGIORNO Rising Crust Pepperoni Pizza has a FoodScore of 48/100, indicating it's a decent option but not a primary source of optimal nutrition. It provides protein and some micronutrients like Vitamin A, calcium, and iron. However, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high sodium content mean it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How does DIGIORNO Rising Crust Pepperoni Pizza compare to other frozen pizzas?
Compared to many other frozen pizzas in the category, DIGIORNO Rising Crust Pepperoni Pizza's nutritional profile is similar in terms of its processed nature and levels of sodium and saturated fat. For example, a Red Baron Classic Crust Pepperoni Pizza also typically features high sodium and saturated fat. Always check the specific nutrition label, as values can vary significantly between brands and product lines.
What does 'mechanically separated chicken' mean 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 some processed meat products, including certain types of pepperoni, and contributes to the overall protein content of the food.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pizza?
The declared serving size is 0.167 of the pizza, which is approximately one-sixth. This portion provides 250 calories, 11.43g of protein, and 679.29mg of sodium per 100g. To manage calorie and sodium intake, it's advisable to stick to the recommended serving size or even a smaller portion, especially if other meals that day are also high in sodium or calories. Consider pairing it with a large vegetable salad to increase satiety and nutrient intake.
Can this pizza be part of a weight management plan?
While this pizza can be included in a weight management plan, it requires careful portion control due to its calorie density and high sodium. A 100g serving contains 250 calories. To fit it into a calorie-controlled diet, consider smaller portions and balance it with lower-calorie, nutrient-dense foods throughout the day. Its protein content can help with satiety, but the overall processed nature should be considered.