DIGIORNO SAUSAGE, PEPPER & ONION SAUSAGE, FIRE ROASTED RED & YELLOW BELL PEPPERS, AND RED ONION CHEESE STUFFED CRUST PIZZA, SAUSAGE, PEPPER & ONION
DIGIORNO SAUSAGE, PEPPER & ONION CHEESE STUFFED CRUST PIZZA scores 45/100, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content.
This DIGIORNO pizza has a FoodScore of 45/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile.
It provides 10.71g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
A significant concern is the 500mg of sodium per 100g, which is high.
As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it differs significantly from less processed dairy options.
Consider this product for occasional consumption rather than a dietary staple.
Scores +12 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
1.4g
5% of Daily Value
Protein
10.71g
21% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
500mg
22% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (10.7g)+6
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C)+6
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (5.7g)-5
Sodium (500mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 45
The DIGIORNO SAUSAGE, PEPPER & ONION CHEESE STUFFED CRUST PIZZA receives a FoodScore of 45 out of 100. This score reflects a balance of some beneficial nutrients against factors associated with processed foods. The product earns bonuses for its protein content, providing 10.71g per 100g, and for micronutrients like Vitamin A (40% DV), Vitamin C (17% DV), and Calcium (14% DV). However, several factors lead to penalties. The saturated fat content at 5.71g per 100g contributes to a penalty, as does the high sodium level of 500mg per 100g. A significant deduction comes from its classification as a NOVA 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed. Ingredients such as 'mechanically separated chicken' and 'modified food starch' are indicative of its processing level. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which often has fewer additives and lower sodium, this DIGIORNO pizza presents a more complex nutritional profile due to its composite nature and processing.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in digiorno sausage, pepper & onion sausage, fire roasted red & yellow bell peppers, and red onion cheese stuffed crust pizza, sausage, pepper & onion actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This DIGIORNO pizza provides 10.71g of protein per 100g. Protein is an essential macronutrient that supports muscle maintenance and repair, and contributes to feelings of fullness. Including adequate protein in meals can help manage appetite and support overall body function. While this product offers protein, it's important to consider it within the context of the overall meal.
Contains Essential Micronutrients
The pizza contributes to your daily intake of several micronutrients. Per 100g, it offers 40% DV of Vitamin A, 17% DV of Vitamin C, and 14% DV of Calcium. Vitamin A is crucial for vision and immune function, while Vitamin C is an antioxidant important for skin health and immunity. Calcium is vital for bone health. These contributions can help fill gaps in a varied diet.
Convenient Meal Option
For individuals with limited time for meal preparation, this product offers a convenient and quick meal solution. Its ready-to-bake format can be a practical option for busy schedules. While convenience is a benefit, it's advisable to balance such options with less processed foods and to be mindful of portion sizes to align with dietary guidelines for overall nutrient intake.
DIGIORNO SAUSAGE, PEPPER & ONION CHEESE STUFFED CRUST PIZZA scores 45/100, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content.
How to eat it
Frozen pizzas like DIGIORNO are typically consumed as a main meal for lunch or dinner. A common pitfall is consuming more than the suggested serving size, which can lead to excessive intake of sodium and saturated fat.
Pair with a large side salad to increase fiber and vegetable intake and add fresh produce.
Consider sharing a single pizza to manage portion sizes and reduce overall calorie, sodium, and saturated fat intake.
Add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers before baking to boost nutrient density.
Limit consumption to occasional meals rather than a regular dietary staple due to its ultra-processed nature.
Things to keep in mind
This product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed. It contains 'mechanically separated chicken' and 'modified food starch', which are common in highly processed foods. The ingredient list also includes BHA, BHT, and citric acid, added to help protect flavor, which are preservatives. Individuals with sensitivities to food additives may wish to note these. Allergens declared on the label include wheat, milk, and soy, which are common allergens. Those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this product due to the enriched wheat flour. The high sodium content of 500mg per 100g should be considered by individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension.
With a FoodScore of 45/100, this DIGIORNO pizza is considered decent. It provides protein and some vitamins, but its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high sodium and saturated fat content mean it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It is not a primary source of whole foods.
How does DIGIORNO compare to a generic frozen pizza?
Compared to a generic frozen pizza, the DIGIORNO SAUSAGE, PEPPER & ONION pizza has a similar nutritional profile in terms of being a composite, ultra-processed food. Specific nutrient values like protein, sodium, and saturated fat would need to be compared directly to a specific generic product, but the overall category characteristics are comparable. For example, a Red Baron Classic Crust Pepperoni Pizza also falls into the ultra-processed category with similar nutritional trade-offs.
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 some processed meat products, contributing to the protein content but also indicating a higher degree of processing in the food.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pizza?
The suggested serving size is 0.2 PIZZA, which is one-fifth of the entire pizza. Adhering to this portion size is important to manage intake of calories, sodium, and saturated fat. Consuming a larger portion would significantly increase these values, potentially exceeding daily recommendations.
Can this pizza be part of a balanced diet?
Yes, this pizza can be part of a balanced diet when consumed occasionally and in moderation. To enhance its nutritional balance, pair it with a large serving of vegetables or a side salad. Focus on consuming a variety of whole, unprocessed foods for the majority of your meals to ensure adequate nutrient intake.