HEALTHY CHOICE ROASTED RED PEPPER MARINARA scores 50/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food, despite offering some micronutrient benefits.
This HEALTHY CHOICE product earns a FoodScore of 50/100 (Decent).
It provides 2.1g of fiber per 100g, contributing to daily intake.
The product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), impacting its overall score.
Compared to a home-cooked version, this product contains more processed ingredients.
Consider this as a convenient meal option, mindful of its processed nature.
Scores +4 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
2.1g
8% of Daily Value
Protein
3.73g
7% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
231.95mg
10% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.1g)+1
Micronutrients (Vitamin A, Vitamin B12)+4
−
What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 50
HEALTHY CHOICE ROASTED RED PEPPER MARINARA achieves a FoodScore of 50 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. The score reflects a balance of nutritional contributions and processing level. On the positive side, the product receives a bonus for its fiber content, providing 2.1g per 100g, which is a notable amount for a prepared meal. Additionally, it earns points for micronutrients, specifically contributing 23% DV for Vitamin A and 10% DV for Vitamin B12 per 100g. However, a significant penalty of -5 points is applied because it falls into NOVA class 3, indicating it is a processed food. While it contains whole grain flours like 'WHEAT {ULTRAGRAIN}' and 'BARLEY (SUSTAGRAIN)', these are part of a multi-ingredient pasta. The product contains 0g of added sugar and a moderate sodium level of 231.95mg per 100g. Compared to a home-cooked marinara with whole ingredients, this product includes more components that have undergone processing, such as tomato juice concentrate and a cheese blend, which contribute to its NOVA classification.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in healthy choice roasted red pepper marinara actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Fiber
This HEALTHY CHOICE meal provides 2.1g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily recommended intake. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help maintain regularity. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet also supports feelings of fullness, which can be beneficial for managing appetite. This product's use of whole grain flours in its pasta contributes to its fiber content, making it a more substantial option than refined grain alternatives.
Good Source of Vitamin A
The Roasted Red Pepper Marinara is a good source of Vitamin A, supplying 23% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is a crucial nutrient known for its role in supporting vision, particularly in low light. It also plays a part in immune function and maintaining healthy skin. The presence of tomatoes and roasted red peppers in the recipe likely contributes significantly to this vitamin content, offering a beneficial micronutrient.
Contains Vitamin B12
This product offers 10% of the Daily Value for Vitamin B12 per 100g. Vitamin B12 is essential for nerve function and the formation of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. It also plays a role in DNA synthesis. While not a primary source, this contribution can help meet daily needs, especially for individuals who may have limited dietary sources of B12, such as those following vegetarian diets who consume dairy and eggs.
HEALTHY CHOICE ROASTED RED PEPPER MARINARA scores 50/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food, despite offering some micronutrient benefits.
How to eat it
This HEALTHY CHOICE ROASTED RED PEPPER MARINARA is designed as a convenient single-serving meal, often consumed for lunch or dinner. It is typically heated and eaten directly from the container, providing a quick option for busy schedules. The portion size is a full meal.
To enhance the nutritional profile, consider adding fresh or frozen vegetables like spinach or broccoli during heating.
Pair this meal with a side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to increase vegetable intake and overall meal volume.
If you find the portion size insufficient, supplement with a piece of fruit or a small handful of nuts rather than a second processed meal.
For a more balanced meal, consider adding a lean protein source such as grilled chicken or chickpeas to the pasta.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains common allergens including wheat, egg, and milk, as declared on the ingredient list. Individuals with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should avoid this product. The ingredient list also includes 'CORN STARCH' and 'EVAPORATED CANE SYRUP' as part of the garlic puree, which are common food components. While the product is classified as processed (NOVA 3), it does not contain artificial colors, flavors, or high levels of added sugar. The sodium content is moderate, but individuals monitoring their sodium intake should be aware of its contribution to their daily limit.
Is HEALTHY CHOICE Roasted Red Pepper Marinara healthy?
This HEALTHY CHOICE product scores 50/100 (Decent) on FoodScore. It offers some beneficial nutrients like fiber, Vitamin A, and Vitamin B12. However, it is classified as a NOVA 3 processed food. While it can fit into a balanced diet, it's generally recommended to prioritize less processed options when possible.
How does HEALTHY CHOICE Roasted Red Pepper Marinara compare to other prepared pasta meals?
Compared to many other prepared pasta meals, such as those from Stouffer's, this HEALTHY CHOICE option stands out for its 0g of added sugar and inclusion of whole grain flours. Its sodium content of 231.95mg per 100g is also often lower than some competitors in the frozen meal category, making it a relatively better choice among processed options.
What is 'COOKED 9 GRAIN PASTA' in this product?
The 'COOKED 9 GRAIN PASTA' is a blend of various whole grain flours, including wheat, barley, rye, oats, amaranth, quinoa, millet, sorghum, and teff, combined with wheat semolina and egg white. This blend contributes to the product's fiber content and provides a wider range of grains than typical refined pasta.
What is a typical portion size for this meal?
The serving size for this HEALTHY CHOICE Roasted Red Pepper Marinara is listed as '1 MEAL'. This means the entire package is intended to be consumed as a single portion. All nutrient values provided are per 100g, so if the meal weighs more than 100g, the total nutrient intake will be proportionally higher.
Does this product contain real cheese?
Yes, the ingredient list specifies a 'CHEESE BLEND' which includes Parmesan, Romano (made from cow's milk), and Asiago cheese. These are all traditional cheeses made from pasteurized part skim milk, cultures, salt, and enzymes, indicating the presence of real cheese in the product.