FoodScore
0/ 100
PoorotherHEALTHY CHOICE· 1 MEAL

HEALTHY CHOICE, PORTABELLA PARMESAN RISOTTO

HEALTHY CHOICE Portabella Parmesan Risotto scores 42/100 (Poor), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food.

  • This HEALTHY CHOICE meal has a FoodScore of 42/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
  • It provides 1.5g of fiber per 100g, contributing to daily intake.
  • The product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
  • With 218.96mg of sodium per 100g, it is higher in sodium compared to a generic risotto.
  • Scores +0 points above the other category average (42/100 across 979 foods).
Fiber
1.5g
5% of Daily Value
Protein
3.35g
7% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
218.96mg
10% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 42

The HEALTHY CHOICE Portabella Parmesan Risotto receives a FoodScore of 42 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. A significant factor contributing to this score is its classification as NOVA class 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food, which incurs a 10-point penalty. While the product contains beneficial ingredients like portabella mushrooms and peas, the overall formulation includes components such as whey powder and flavoring that are characteristic of highly processed items. On the positive side, it receives a 2-point bonus for its Vitamin A content, providing 21% DV per 100g. However, other micronutrients like Vitamin D and Folate are absent. The product contains 1.5g of fiber per 100g and 3.35g of protein, which are moderate contributions. With 218.96mg of sodium per 100g, it is a notable source of sodium. Compared to a generic, unbranded portabella parmesan risotto, this HEALTHY CHOICE SKU tends to have a higher degree of processing and a similar sodium level, impacting its overall nutritional standing.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in healthy choice, portabella parmesan risotto actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Vitamin A

This Portabella Parmesan Risotto provides 21% of the Daily Value for Vitamin A per 100g. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin important for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. Including foods that contribute to your Vitamin A intake can support these bodily functions. While not a primary source, this meal can help supplement your daily needs.

Contains Dietary Fiber

With 1.5g of fiber per 100g, this meal contributes to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and potentially supporting satiety. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it is a positive component of the meal's nutritional profile and can be part of a balanced diet that includes other fiber-rich foods.

Convenient Meal Option

This HEALTHY CHOICE meal offers a convenient option for individuals seeking a quick and easy meal solution. Its pre-portioned nature and simple preparation can be beneficial for those with limited time for cooking. While it is an ultra-processed food, its convenience can help individuals avoid less nutritious fast-food alternatives when time is a constraint, provided other meals in the day are balanced.

How to eat it

This Portabella Parmesan Risotto is designed as a single-serving frozen meal, typically consumed as a quick lunch or dinner. It's often heated in a microwave, offering a convenient option for busy schedules. Be mindful of the portion size as it's a complete meal.

To enhance the nutritional value, consider pairing this risotto with a side salad made with fresh, raw vegetables and a light vinaigrette.
Increase the fiber and micronutrient content by adding a handful of steamed green beans or spinach to the meal after heating.
If you are monitoring sodium intake, balance this meal with other low-sodium foods throughout the day, as it contributes significantly to your daily sodium limit.
Things to keep in mind

This product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food. While generally safe for consumption, ultra-processed foods often contain ingredients like yeast extract and flavoring which can contribute to higher sodium levels and less nutrient density compared to whole foods. Individuals with specific dietary sensitivities should note the presence of Parmesan cheese (part skim milk), indicating a dairy allergen. The sodium content of 218.96mg per 100g is moderate, but individuals on a sodium-restricted diet should account for this in their daily intake. There are no artificial sweeteners or colors listed. Overall, for most healthy adults, this product does not present unique immediate health risks beyond those associated with a diet high in processed foods.

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Reader questions
Is HEALTHY CHOICE Portabella Parmesan Risotto a healthy meal option?
This HEALTHY CHOICE meal scores 42/100 (Poor) on FoodScore. While it provides some fiber and Vitamin A, it is classified as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4). Its nutritional profile suggests it's best consumed occasionally as part of a varied diet, rather than a regular staple.
How does HEALTHY CHOICE Portabella Parmesan Risotto compare to other frozen meals?
Compared to some other frozen meals, such as a Lean Cuisine or Stouffer's entree, the HEALTHY CHOICE Portabella Parmesan Risotto has a similar level of processing. Its sodium content of 218.96mg per 100g is typical for this category. Always check the nutrition facts of specific products for direct comparison.
What is 'flavoring' in the ingredient list?
The term 'flavoring' on an ingredient list, as seen in this HEALTHY CHOICE product, generally refers to natural or artificial substances added to enhance taste. Without further specification, it's not possible to know the exact components. These are common in processed foods to create a consistent flavor profile.
What is a reasonable portion size for this risotto?
The declared serving size for this product is 1 MEAL, which is the entire package. Adhering to this portion size is important to manage calorie and sodium intake. If you are looking to reduce your portion, consider splitting it and adding more vegetables.
Can I add anything to this risotto to make it more nutritious?
Yes, you can easily boost the nutritional value of this risotto. Stir in some fresh or frozen vegetables like spinach, broccoli florets, or chopped bell peppers after heating. You could also add a small amount of lean protein, such as grilled chicken, to increase satiety and protein content.

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