DIGIORNO SPICY SAUSAGE ITALIANO & PROVOLONE SPICY ITALIAN SAUSAGE, REDUCED FAT PROVOLONE, DICED TOMATOES WITH MOZZARELLA THIN PIZZA, SPICY SAUSAGE ITALIANO & PROVOLONE
DIGIORNO SPICY SAUSAGE ITALIANO & PROVOLONE THIN PIZZA scores 46/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content.
This DIGIORNO pizza scores 46/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
It provides 10.4g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
A notable concern is the 552mg of sodium per 100g, which is high.
As a NOVA class 4 food, it is considered ultra-processed.
Consider this product for occasional consumption rather than a regular meal.
Scores -1 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
1.6g
6% of Daily Value
Protein
10.4g
21% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
552mg
24% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (10.4g)+6
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (4g)-2
Sodium (552mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 46
The DIGIORNO SPICY SAUSAGE ITALIANO & PROVOLONE THIN PIZZA receives a FoodScore of 46 out of 100, categorizing it as 'Decent'. This score reflects a balance of some beneficial nutrients against factors that detract from overall nutritional quality. On the positive side, the product earns bonus points for its protein content, providing 10.4g per 100g, which can contribute to satiety. It also provides meaningful amounts of certain micronutrients, specifically 12% DV for calcium and 27% DV for vitamin A per 100g. However, several factors reduce its score. The most significant penalty comes from its classification as a NOVA class 4 food, indicating it is ultra-processed, which generally suggests a less optimal nutrient profile compared to minimally processed foods. Additionally, the product contains 4g of saturated fat per 100g and a high sodium content of 552mg per 100g, both of which are areas of concern in dietary guidelines. The ingredient list includes enriched wheat flour as the primary ingredient, which is less nutrient-dense than whole grain alternatives. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this DIGIORNO pizza offers less fiber (1.6g per 100g) and a higher sodium level.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in digiorno spicy sausage italiano & provolone spicy italian sausage, reduced fat provolone, diced tomatoes with mozzarella thin pizza, spicy sausage italiano & provolone actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This DIGIORNO pizza provides 10.4g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to feelings of fullness and support muscle maintenance. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in various bodily functions, including tissue repair and enzyme production. Including protein in meals can help manage hunger, making this product a contributor to daily protein intake when consumed as part of a balanced diet. The protein primarily comes from the cheeses and cooked Italian sausage.
Provides Calcium and Vitamin A
The product contains 160mg of calcium (12% DV) and 27% DV of Vitamin A per 100g. Calcium is crucial for bone health and density, while Vitamin A supports vision and immune function. These micronutrients are primarily derived from the low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese and reduced fat provolone cheese. While not a primary source for all micronutrients, these contributions can help meet daily requirements, especially for individuals who may not consume enough dairy.
Convenient Meal Option
As a frozen pizza, this product offers a convenient and quick meal solution for busy individuals or families. Its ease of preparation can be beneficial for those with limited time for cooking. While convenience foods should be balanced with whole, minimally processed options, having readily available meals like this can help prevent skipping meals or opting for less nutritious fast-food alternatives. It serves a practical purpose in a varied diet.
DIGIORNO SPICY SAUSAGE ITALIANO & PROVOLONE THIN PIZZA scores 46/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content.
How to eat it
Frozen pizzas like the DIGIORNO SPICY SAUSAGE ITALIANO & PROVOLONE THIN PIZZA are typically consumed as a main meal for lunch or dinner. A common portion is one-quarter of the pizza, as indicated by the serving size. It's often eaten on its own, but can be paired with other foods to enhance its nutritional profile. The primary pitfall is consuming the entire pizza or large portions frequently.
To increase fiber and micronutrient intake, pair your pizza slice with a large side salad containing various vegetables and a light vinaigrette.
Consider adding extra vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach before baking to boost the nutrient density of your meal.
Stick to the recommended serving size of one-quarter of the pizza to manage calorie and sodium intake effectively.
Balance your meal by including a source of lean protein alongside, such as a small serving of grilled chicken, to further enhance satiety.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the sodium content in DIGIORNO SPICY SAUSAGE ITALIANO & PROVOLONE THIN PIZZA, which is 552mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension, should consume this product in moderation. The ingredient list includes enriched wheat flour, which contains gluten, making it unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The product also contains milk ingredients (low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese, reduced fat provolone cheese), which are common allergens. While the product contains BHA and BHT as preservatives, these are generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies in the amounts used. Overall, for most healthy individuals, the product does not present unusual cautions beyond general dietary advice regarding processed foods.
Is DIGIORNO SPICY SAUSAGE ITALIANO & PROVOLONE THIN PIZZA a healthy choice?
This DIGIORNO pizza scores 46/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. While it provides protein, calcium, and vitamin A, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high sodium content mean it's best enjoyed in moderation as part of a varied diet. It's not a 'healthy' staple but can fit into an occasional meal plan.
How does this DIGIORNO pizza compare to other frozen pizzas?
Compared to many other frozen pizzas, this DIGIORNO SKU's score of 46/100 is fairly typical for the category. Some brands like Newman's Own or Amy's Kitchen might offer options with slightly different nutrient profiles, potentially with more whole grains or lower sodium, but overall, most frozen pizzas tend to be ultra-processed with similar nutritional trade-offs. Always check the specific nutrition facts for direct comparison.
What does 'reduced fat provolone cheese' mean for the nutrition?
The 'reduced fat provolone cheese' in this DIGIORNO pizza means it contains less total fat and saturated fat compared to regular provolone cheese. This contributes to the overall fat content of the pizza. While it helps manage the fat profile, it's important to look at the total fat and saturated fat for the entire product, which is still 8.8g total fat and 4g saturated fat per 100g.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pizza?
The recommended serving size is one-quarter of the pizza. Adhering to this portion helps manage calorie, fat, and sodium intake. Consuming a larger portion, such as half or the entire pizza, would significantly increase the intake of these nutrients, potentially exceeding daily recommendations.
Can I add more toppings to this pizza?
Yes, adding more toppings is a good way to enhance the nutritional value of this DIGIORNO pizza. Consider fresh vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to boost fiber and micronutrients without significantly increasing sodium or saturated fat. This can help make the meal more balanced and satisfying.