LEAN CUISINE GARLIC PARMESAN ALFREDO WITH BROCCOLI FRESHLY MADE CAVATAPPI PASTA WITH BROCCOLI IN A GARLIC PARMESAN ALFREDO SAUCE, GARLIC PARMESAN ALFREDO WITH BROCCOLI
LEAN CUISINE GARLIC PARMESAN ALFREDO WITH BROCCOLI scores a Poor 44/100, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food.
This LEAN CUISINE product scores 44/100 (Poor) on FoodScore.
It provides 3.9g of fiber per 100g, contributing to daily intake.
The product contains 321.96mg of sodium per 100g, a moderate amount.
As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it differs significantly from whole-grain options.
This single-serving meal offers a convenient option for quick preparation.
Scores -3 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
3.9g
14% of Daily Value
Protein
3.92g
8% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
321.96mg
14% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.9g)+4
−
What holds it back
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 44
LEAN CUISINE GARLIC PARMESAN ALFREDO WITH BROCCOLI receives a FoodScore of 44 out of 100, placing it in the 'Poor' category. The primary factor influencing this score is its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty of -10 points. While the product does offer a notable amount of fiber, with 3.9g per 100g, earning it +4 bonus points, this is not enough to offset the processing penalty and other nutritional aspects. The fat content is moderate at 3.53g total fat per 100g, with 1.57g of that being saturated fat. Sodium is present at 321.96mg per 100g, which is a consideration for those monitoring intake. The ingredient list includes tapioca starch and konjac flour in the cauliflower pasta, indicating a formulation designed to mimic traditional pasta while incorporating vegetables. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this LEAN CUISINE offering lacks the comprehensive nutrient profile typically found in less processed, whole-grain foods.
Health benefits
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Source of Dietary Fiber
This product provides 3.9g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet supports regular bowel movements and can aid in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. While not a primary source, this meal can help supplement fiber intake.
Convenient Meal Option
As a single-serving frozen meal, this LEAN CUISINE product offers a convenient solution for quick preparation. For individuals with limited time for cooking or meal planning, it provides a ready-to-eat option that requires minimal effort. This can be beneficial for managing portion sizes and ensuring a meal is available when other options are not feasible, fitting into a busy lifestyle.
Contains Vegetables
The inclusion of broccoli and cauliflower in this dish means it contributes some vegetable content to your meal. While the pasta itself is made with cauliflower, the presence of whole broccoli florets adds to the overall nutritional value. Incorporating vegetables into meals is important for providing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting overall health.
LEAN CUISINE GARLIC PARMESAN ALFREDO WITH BROCCOLI scores a Poor 44/100, primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
This LEAN CUISINE meal is designed as a single-serving, microwaveable option for lunch or dinner. It's typically consumed directly from the package after heating, offering a quick and easy meal solution for busy individuals. Be mindful of the portion size, as it is intended to be a complete meal.
To enhance the meal's nutritional profile, consider adding a side salad with a light vinaigrette.
Pair this meal with a piece of fruit, such as an apple or orange, to increase your vitamin and antioxidant intake.
If you find the portion size insufficient, supplement with additional steamed vegetables like green beans or spinach to boost fiber and nutrients without adding excessive calories.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains common allergens including milk and eggs, as declared on the ingredient list. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid consumption. The ingredient list also includes carrageenan, a food additive used as a thickener and stabilizer. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may experience digestive sensitivities to carrageenan. The sodium content at 321.96mg per 100g is moderate, but those monitoring their sodium intake due to blood pressure concerns should be aware and consider it within their daily limits. The presence of soybean oil is also noted, which is a common allergen for some.
Is LEAN CUISINE Garlic Parmesan Alfredo with Broccoli healthy?
This LEAN CUISINE product scores 44/100, indicating a 'Poor' nutritional rating. While it offers some fiber and convenience, its classification as an ultra-processed food and moderate sodium content are factors to consider. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with other nutrient-dense foods.
How does LEAN CUISINE Garlic Parmesan Alfredo with Broccoli compare to other frozen meals?
Compared to some other frozen pasta meals, such as those from Stouffer's, this LEAN CUISINE option may offer a different nutritional profile, often with a focus on lower calorie counts. However, its NOVA 4 classification means it is still an ultra-processed food, similar to many other convenience meals in the category. Always check the nutrition facts for specific comparisons.
What is 'cauliflower pasta' in this product?
The 'cauliflower pasta' in this LEAN CUISINE meal is a blend of water, tapioca starch, cauliflower, konjac flour, arrowroot starch, eggs, and soybean oil. This formulation is designed to create a pasta-like texture while incorporating vegetables and potentially reducing the carbohydrate content compared to traditional wheat pasta. It contributes to the product's fiber content.
Can I eat this LEAN CUISINE meal every day?
While this meal is convenient, consuming it every day might not be ideal for a balanced diet due to its ultra-processed nature and moderate sodium. It's generally recommended to incorporate a variety of whole, unprocessed foods into your daily meals. Consider rotating with other meal options that are richer in diverse micronutrients and less processed.
How can I make this meal more filling?
To make this LEAN CUISINE meal more filling, you can add extra lean protein such as grilled chicken breast or shrimp. You could also mix in additional non-starchy vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. These additions will increase the protein and fiber content, helping you feel more satisfied without significantly increasing calories.