FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoiddairyMARIE CALLENDER'S· 1 MEAL

MARIE CALLENDER'S FETTUCCINI ALFREDO PASTA IN A CREAMY ALFREDO SAUCE MEAL, FETTUCCINI ALFREDO

MARIE CALLENDER'S FETTUCCINI ALFREDO scores 21/100 (Avoid) primarily due to the presence of trans fat and its classification as an ultra-processed food.

  • This MARIE CALLENDER'S meal received a FoodScore of 21/100, indicating it should be avoided.
  • It contains 0.16g of trans fat per 100g, a factor that significantly lowers its score.
  • Classified as NOVA class 4, this product is an ultra-processed food.
  • Compared to generic dairy equivalents, this meal has a higher sodium content at 284.06mg per 100g.
  • Consider this product for occasional consumption rather than a regular dietary staple.
  • Scores -12 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
1.6g
6% of Daily Value
Protein
5.31g
11% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
284.06mg
12% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (5.3g)+1
What holds it back
Trans fat present-20
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 21

MARIE CALLENDER'S FETTUCCINI ALFREDO receives a FoodScore of 21 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. A significant factor contributing to this low score is the presence of trans fat, listed at 0.16g per 100g, which incurs a substantial penalty. Additionally, the product is classified as NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which further reduces its score. While it provides 5.31g of protein per 100g, earning a small bonus, this is outweighed by the penalties. The sodium content is 284.06mg per 100g, which is a considerable amount for a single serving. The ingredient list includes soybean oil and modified starches, common in ultra-processed foods. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which might offer more beneficial nutrients like higher calcium or protein without the added trans fats and processing, this MARIE CALLENDER'S meal presents a less favorable nutritional profile.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in marie callender's fettuccini alfredo pasta in a creamy alfredo sauce meal, fettuccini alfredo actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Provides a Source of Protein

This MARIE CALLENDER'S FETTUCCINI ALFREDO meal offers 5.31g of protein per 100g, contributing to your daily protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and repair, and plays a role in satiety. While not a primary protein source, it can contribute to the overall protein content of a meal when combined with other protein-rich foods. The protein primarily comes from the enriched pasta and the cheeses in the alfredo sauce.

Contains Calcium

With 100mg of calcium per 100g, providing 8% of the Daily Value, this product contributes to your intake of this essential mineral. Calcium is crucial for bone health and various bodily functions, including nerve transmission and muscle function. The calcium content in this meal is primarily derived from the Parmesan cheese and Romano cheese in the alfredo sauce, offering a modest amount towards daily needs.

Convenient Meal Option

This MARIE CALLENDER'S meal offers convenience for quick preparation, making it a practical option for individuals with limited time for cooking. As a ready-to-heat frozen meal, it can serve as a rapid solution for lunch or dinner. While convenience is a benefit, it is important to consider the overall nutritional profile when incorporating such items regularly into a diet.

How to eat it

Frozen pasta meals like MARIE CALLENDER'S FETTUCCINI ALFREDO are typically consumed as a single-serving main dish for lunch or dinner. They are designed for quick preparation in a microwave or oven, offering a convenient option for busy individuals. The entire package is usually considered one portion.

To enhance the nutritional value, consider pairing this meal with a side salad rich in non-starchy vegetables to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
For a more balanced meal, add a lean protein source such as grilled chicken breast or shrimp to supplement the protein content.
Be mindful of the sodium content; balance this meal with other low-sodium foods throughout the day to help manage overall sodium intake.
If you are looking to reduce calorie intake, consider consuming only half of the meal and saving the rest for another time, or portioning it out with additional vegetables.
Things to keep in mind

This product contains several common allergens, including wheat, milk, soy, and egg, as declared in the ingredient list. Individuals with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should avoid this product. The presence of trans fat is a nutritional concern, as dietary guidelines recommend minimizing its intake due to its potential impact on cardiovascular health. The product also contains modified starches and gums (xanthan gum, guar gum), which are common food additives in ultra-processed foods. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may experience digestive discomfort from these ingredients. The sodium content is also notable, and those monitoring their sodium intake for conditions like hypertension should be aware.

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Reader questions
Is MARIE CALLENDER'S Fettuccini Alfredo healthy?
MARIE CALLENDER'S Fettuccini Alfredo received a FoodScore of 21/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. This is primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and the presence of trans fat. While it offers some protein and calcium, these benefits are outweighed by other nutritional factors.
How does MARIE CALLENDER'S Fettuccini Alfredo compare to a generic pasta dish?
Compared to a generic homemade fettuccini alfredo, MARIE CALLENDER'S Fettuccini Alfredo is likely to contain more food additives and be higher in sodium due to its ultra-processed nature. A homemade version would allow for control over ingredients, potentially reducing trans fats and sodium, and increasing the freshness of components like Parmesan cheese.
What is 'enriched pasta' in the ingredient list?
Enriched pasta refers to pasta made from flour where certain nutrients lost during processing, such as niacin, iron, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid, have been added back. This process aims to restore some of the micronutrient content that would otherwise be lower in refined grain products.
What is a suitable portion size for this meal?
The serving size for this product is listed as '1 MEAL,' meaning the entire package is intended as a single portion. However, given its FoodScore of 21/100 and nutritional profile, individuals may consider consuming a smaller portion or balancing it with other nutrient-dense foods to moderate intake of sodium and fat.
Does this product contain real cheese?
Yes, the ingredient list specifies Parmesan cheese and Romano cheese from cow's milk. These are genuine cheese ingredients, contributing to the flavor and calcium content of the alfredo sauce. The presence of these cheeses is a source of the product's calcium content.
Are there other frozen pasta meals that are better choices?
When evaluating other frozen pasta meals, look for options with higher FoodScores. Generally, products with less added sugar, lower sodium, no trans fat, and a higher fiber content would be more favorable. Brands like Amy's Kitchen or Kashi sometimes offer options with more whole ingredients and less processing, though specific SKUs should always be checked individually.

Explore more

CategoryAll dairy & alternatives BrandAll Marie Callender's SKUs Competitor · 85/100MARANATHA, ORGANIC CREAMY ROASTED ALMOND BUTTER Competitor · 85/100MARANATHA, ORGANIC RAW ALMOND BUTTER CREAMY Head-to-headMARIE CALLENDER'S FETTUCCINI ALFREDO PASTA IN A CREAMY ALFREDO SAUCE MEAL, FETTUCCINI ALFREDO vs. MARANATHA, ORGANIC CREAMY ROASTED ALMOND BUTTER Head-to-headMARIE CALLENDER'S FETTUCCINI ALFREDO PASTA IN A CREAMY ALFREDO SAUCE MEAL, FETTUCCINI ALFREDO vs. MARANATHA, ORGANIC RAW ALMOND BUTTER CREAMY Head-to-headMARIE CALLENDER'S FETTUCCINI ALFREDO PASTA IN A CREAMY ALFREDO SAUCE MEAL, FETTUCCINI ALFREDO vs. MARANATHA, ORGANIC ROASTED CREAMY ALMOND BUTTER Head-to-headMARIE CALLENDER'S FETTUCCINI ALFREDO PASTA IN A CREAMY ALFREDO SAUCE MEAL, FETTUCCINI ALFREDO vs. MARANATHA ORGANIC CRUNCHY RAW ALMOND BUTTER, CRUNCHY Fits dietCarnivore diet →

Data & references