FOOD FOR LIFE SPROUTED ELBOWS COMPLETE PROTEIN PASTA
FOOD FOR LIFE SPROUTED ELBOWS COMPLETE PROTEIN PASTA earns a FoodScore of 69/100 (Good), primarily driven by its **high fiber and protein content** from sprouted grains and legumes.
FoodScore: 69/100 (Good), indicating a nutritionally sound choice.
Provides 12.5g fiber and 14.3g protein per 100g, a significant strength.
Contains 0g added sugar and 0mg sodium, aligning with healthy eating patterns.
Classified as NOVA 3 (processed), typical for pasta products.
A good choice for increasing plant-based protein and fiber in meals.
Scores +22 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
12.5g
45% of Daily Value
Protein
14.3g
29% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Fiber (12.5g)+12
Protein (14.3g)+10
Micronutrients (Iron)+2
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What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 69
FOOD FOR LIFE SPROUTED ELBOWS COMPLETE PROTEIN PASTA achieved a FoodScore of 69 out of 100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score reflects its strong nutritional profile, particularly in fiber and protein. The product receives a significant bonus of 12 points for its high fiber content, providing 12.5g per 100g, which is well above the threshold for a 'good source' claim. An additional 10 points are awarded for its protein content of 14.3g per 100g, making it a complete protein source as marketed. Furthermore, it gains 2 points for its iron content, contributing 22% of the Daily Value per 100g. The ingredient list highlights organic sprouted wheat, barley, millet, lentils, and soybeans, which contribute to these nutrient levels. The product contains 0g of added sugar and 0mg of sodium, avoiding common penalties. However, it incurs a 5-point penalty due to its NOVA class 3 classification, indicating it is a processed food, which is typical for pasta products. Compared to a generic whole-grain pasta baseline, this product offers a higher protein and fiber density due to the inclusion of sprouted legumes like lentils and soybeans.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in food for life sprouted elbows complete protein pasta actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Digestive Health
This pasta is an excellent source of fiber, providing 12.5g per 100g. Dietary fiber is crucial for maintaining regular bowel movements and can help prevent constipation. The diverse blend of sprouted grains and legumes, including sprouted lentils and soybeans, contributes to this high fiber content, which also supports a healthy gut microbiome. Including foods rich in fiber like this pasta can be a practical way to meet daily fiber recommendations.
Contributes to Muscle Maintenance and Satiety
With 14.3g of protein per 100g, FOOD FOR LIFE SPROUTED ELBOWS COMPLETE PROTEIN PASTA is a significant source of plant-based protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and for producing enzymes and hormones. The combination of different sprouted ingredients ensures a more complete amino acid profile than many single-grain pastas. This high protein content can also contribute to increased feelings of fullness, potentially aiding in weight management by reducing overall calorie intake.
Provides Essential Micronutrients
This pasta offers a notable amount of iron, supplying 22% of the Daily Value per 100g. Iron is vital for oxygen transport in the blood and for energy production. While it does not provide significant amounts of other listed micronutrients like calcium or potassium, its contribution of iron is a valuable addition to the diet, especially for individuals following vegetarian or vegan eating patterns who need to pay attention to iron intake from plant sources. The sprouting process can also enhance nutrient bioavailability.
FOOD FOR LIFE SPROUTED ELBOWS COMPLETE PROTEIN PASTA earns a FoodScore of 69/100 (Good), primarily driven by its high fiber and protein content from sprouted grains and legumes.
How to eat it
Pasta is a staple in many US diets, often served as a main dish or a side. This sprouted pasta can be used similarly to traditional pasta, providing a nutritionally enhanced base for various meals. A typical serving size is 2 ounces (dry), which is about 56g, so adjust your portion based on your dietary needs.
Pair with a variety of colorful vegetables and a lean protein source to create a balanced and nutrient-dense meal.
Use in cold pasta salads with a vinaigrette dressing and plenty of fresh herbs for a fiber-rich lunch option.
Be mindful of portion sizes, as even healthy foods contribute calories. A 2-ounce dry serving provides approximately 190 calories.
Incorporate into soups or stews to boost the protein and fiber content of the dish.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains common allergens: wheat and soybeans, which are explicitly listed in the ingredients. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this product due to the presence of organic sprouted wheat, barley, and spelt. Those with a soy allergy should also exercise caution. The ingredient list is straightforward, consisting solely of sprouted grains and legumes, without the inclusion of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives that might be a concern in other processed foods. There are no added sugars or high sodium levels to be cautious about. Overall, for individuals without the listed allergies, this product presents minimal cautionary concerns regarding its composition.
Is FOOD FOR LIFE SPROUTED ELBOWS COMPLETE PROTEIN PASTA healthy?
This pasta is considered a good choice, earning a FoodScore of 69/100. It is notably high in fiber (12.5g/100g) and protein (14.3g/100g), and contains no added sugar or sodium. These attributes make it a nutritionally sound option for many diets, especially for those looking to increase their intake of plant-based protein and fiber.
How does FOOD FOR LIFE SPROUTED ELBOWS COMPLETE PROTEIN PASTA compare to other pastas?
Compared to many conventional refined white pastas, this FOOD FOR LIFE product offers significantly more fiber and protein. When compared to a generic whole-grain pasta, it still stands out with its higher protein content due to the inclusion of sprouted lentils and soybeans. For example, a typical Barilla Whole Grain pasta might have around 7g fiber and 7g protein per 100g, making this product a more nutrient-dense alternative.
What does 'sprouted' mean in this pasta?
Sprouted means that the grains and legumes (like organic sprouted wheat and organic sprouted lentils) have begun to germinate before being processed into flour. This process can enhance the bioavailability of certain nutrients and may make them easier to digest for some individuals. It contributes to the higher fiber and protein content observed in this product.
What is a recommended portion size for this pasta?
The recommended serving size is 2 ounces (dry), which is approximately 56g. This portion provides about 190 calories, 7g of fiber, and 8g of protein. It's important to measure your portion to manage calorie intake, especially if you are combining it with calorie-dense sauces or toppings.
Can this pasta be part of a vegetarian or vegan diet?
Yes, this pasta is an excellent fit for both vegetarian and vegan diets. It is made entirely from plant-based ingredients, including various sprouted grains and legumes, providing a complete protein source without any animal products. It can be a versatile base for many plant-based meals.