FoodScore
0/ 100
PoorgrainFILIPPO BERIO· 1/4 cup

FILIPPO BERIO SUN DRIED TOMATO PESTO, SUN DRIED TOMATO

FILIPPO BERIO SUN DRIED TOMATO PESTO scores 43/100 (Poor) primarily due to its high sodium content.

  • This pesto has a FoodScore of 43/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
  • A serving contains 1260mg of sodium per 100g, a significant amount.
  • The product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), impacting its overall score.
  • It provides 6.67g of protein and 1.7g of fiber per 100g.
  • Consider portion control due to its calorie and fat density.
  • Scores -4 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
1.7g
6% of Daily Value
Protein
6.67g
13% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1260mg
55% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (1.7g)+1
Protein (6.7g)+2
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
What holds it back
Sodium (1260mg)-7
Processed (NOVA 3)-5

Why it scores 43

FILIPPO BERIO SUN DRIED TOMATO PESTO received a FoodScore of 43 out of 100, which is considered poor. The primary factor driving this score down is the high sodium content, contributing a significant penalty of -7 points. At 1260mg of sodium per 100g, this product contains more than half of the daily recommended limit for many individuals in a single serving. Additionally, its classification as NOVA 3 (processed) incurs a -5 point penalty, reflecting that it is made from processed ingredients and often contains added fats, sugars, or salt. On the positive side, the product gains +1 point for its fiber content (1.7g per 100g) and +2 points for its protein (6.67g per 100g). It also receives +2 points for its iron content (1.8mg, 10% DV). Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, which would typically offer more fiber and less sodium, this pesto presents a less favorable nutritional balance. The presence of sunflower oil and extra virgin olive oil contributes to its fat content, while ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes and basil provide some micronutrients, though not enough to offset the sodium penalty significantly.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in filippo berio sun dried tomato pesto, sun dried tomato actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Iron

This pesto provides 1.8mg of iron per 100g, contributing 10% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy metabolism. While not a primary source, incorporating FILIPPO BERIO SUN DRIED TOMATO PESTO into meals can contribute to your daily iron intake, especially when paired with other iron-rich foods. This can be beneficial for maintaining healthy red blood cells and preventing iron deficiency.

Contains Protein

With 6.67g of protein per 100g, this product offers a modest contribution to your daily protein needs. Protein is crucial for muscle repair and growth, as well as for the production of enzymes and hormones. The protein in this pesto primarily comes from ingredients like cashew nuts and Grana Padano cheese. While not a high-protein food, it can complement meals to help reach adequate protein intake, especially when combined with other protein sources.

Provides Healthy Fats

FILIPPO BERIO SUN DRIED TOMATO PESTO contains 41.67g of total fat per 100g, with a significant portion coming from sunflower oil and extra virgin olive oil. These oils are sources of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are considered beneficial for heart health when consumed in moderation. These fats can help with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and provide a concentrated source of energy. However, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes due to the high caloric density.

How to eat it

Pesto is typically used as a sauce for pasta, a spread for sandwiches, or a flavoring agent for various dishes. A common serving size is 1/4 cup, which is a relatively small amount. Due to its concentrated flavor and nutrient density, it's often used sparingly.

Use FILIPPO BERIO SUN DRIED TOMATO PESTO as a flavor enhancer for vegetable dishes or lean protein sources like grilled chicken or fish.
Mix a small amount with plain Greek yogurt to create a lower-sodium dip for raw vegetables.
Spread a thin layer on whole-grain toast or crackers, pairing it with fresh tomatoes or avocado to add dietary fiber.
Dilute with a little water or lemon juice to create a lighter dressing for salads, helping to manage portion size and sodium intake.
Things to keep in mind

This product contains cashew nuts and milk (from Grana Padano cheese), which are common allergens. Individuals with allergies to tree nuts or dairy should avoid this product. The high sodium content of 1260mg per 100g is a significant concern, especially for individuals monitoring their blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. While the product contains citric acid as an acidity regulator, it is generally recognized as safe. There are no artificial sweeteners or colors listed in the ingredients, which is a positive aspect for those avoiding such additives.

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Reader questions
Is FILIPPO BERIO SUN DRIED TOMATO PESTO healthy?
FILIPPO BERIO SUN DRIED TOMATO PESTO has a FoodScore of 43/100, which is considered poor. Its high sodium content is the primary factor contributing to this score. While it offers some protein and iron, the overall nutritional profile suggests it should be consumed in moderation, especially if you are monitoring sodium intake.
How does FILIPPO BERIO SUN DRIED TOMATO PESTO compare to other pestos?
Compared to some other pestos on the market, such as Barilla Traditional Basil Pesto, FILIPPO BERIO SUN DRIED TOMATO PESTO may have a different nutritional balance. It is important to check the nutrition labels of specific brands for sodium, fat, and calorie content to make an informed comparison. Many pestos tend to be high in sodium and fat due to their ingredients.
What is the role of sunflower oil in this pesto?
Sunflower oil is a primary ingredient in FILIPPO BERIO SUN DRIED TOMATO PESTO, contributing to its fat content. It is a source of polyunsaturated fats, which are considered healthy fats. These fats are important for energy and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, but also contribute to the caloric density of the product.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pesto?
The declared serving size for FILIPPO BERIO SUN DRIED TOMATO PESTO is 1/4 cup. Given its high sodium and calorie content, it is advisable to stick to this portion size or even use less, especially if you are consuming other high-sodium foods. Mindful portion control is key to incorporating this product into a balanced diet.
Can this pesto be used in a vegetarian diet?
Yes, FILIPPO BERIO SUN DRIED TOMATO PESTO can be used in a vegetarian diet. However, it is not suitable for a vegan diet as it contains Grana Padano cheese, which is a dairy product. Vegetarians can enjoy this pesto as a flavoring agent for pasta, vegetables, or plant-based protein dishes.

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