O, THAT'S GOOD! THREE CHEESE ROTINI PASTA & CHEESE SAUCE WITH A TWIST OF BUTTERNUT SQUASH, THREE CHEESE
O, THAT'S GOOD! THREE CHEESE ROTINI PASTA & CHEESE SAUCE WITH A TWIST OF BUTTERNUT SQUASH scores 46/100 (Decent) due to its NOVA 4 classification as an ultra-processed food, despite contributions from protein and certain micronutrients.
This product has a FoodScore of 46/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
A serving provides 7.14g of protein, contributing to satiety.
The sodium content is 395.24mg per 100g, which is a notable penalty.
It is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
This SKU offers a convenient meal option, but consider its sodium level.
Scores +13 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
1.4g
5% of Daily Value
Protein
7.14g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
395.24mg
17% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (7.1g)+3
Micronutrients (Calcium, Vitamin A)+4
−
What holds it back
Sodium (395.2mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 46
O, THAT'S GOOD! THREE CHEESE ROTINI PASTA & CHEESE SAUCE WITH A TWIST OF BUTTERNUT SQUASH receives a FoodScore of 46 out of 100. This 'Decent' score is primarily influenced by its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant 10-point penalty. On the positive side, the product gains 3 points for its protein content of 7.14g per 100g, which can contribute to fullness. It also receives 4 bonus points for its micronutrient profile, specifically for providing 13% DV of calcium and 66% DV of Vitamin A per 100g. However, a penalty of 1 point is applied due to its sodium content of 395.24mg per 100g. The ingredient list includes sodium phosphate, a common additive in processed cheese products, which contributes to the overall sodium level. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this product's convenience and added vegetables might be appealing, but its processing level and sodium are factors to consider in a balanced diet.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in o, that's good! three cheese rotini pasta & cheese sauce with a twist of butternut squash, three cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This O, THAT'S GOOD! product provides 7.14g of protein per 100g. Protein is an essential macronutrient that supports muscle maintenance and repair, and can contribute to feelings of satiety, which may help manage appetite. Including adequate protein in meals is important for overall dietary balance and can help prevent overeating later in the day.
Good Source of Calcium
With 167.14mg of calcium per 100g, this product contributes 13% of the Daily Value for calcium. Calcium is crucial for bone health and density, playing a vital role in maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also supports nerve function and muscle contraction. Incorporating calcium-rich foods into the diet is important for long-term skeletal health.
Rich in Vitamin A
This SKU is a good source of Vitamin A, providing 66% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is important for vision, immune function, and skin health. The presence of squash in the recipe likely contributes to this high Vitamin A content, as butternut squash is naturally rich in beta-carotene, a precursor to Vitamin A.
O, THAT'S GOOD! THREE CHEESE ROTINI PASTA & CHEESE SAUCE WITH A TWIST OF BUTTERNUT SQUASH scores 46/100 (Decent) due to its NOVA 4 classification as an ultra-processed food, despite contributions from protein and certain micronutrients.
How to eat it
This O, THAT'S GOOD! pasta and cheese sauce is typically consumed as a quick meal or side dish. A common portion size is the full container, which is 7.5 ounces. It's often heated in a microwave or on the stovetop for convenience.
To enhance the nutritional value, consider pairing this dish with a large serving of fresh or steamed non-starchy vegetables like broccoli or spinach.
Given its sodium content, balance your meal by choosing low-sodium options for other components of your diet throughout the day.
For a more complete meal, add a lean protein source such as grilled chicken or fish to supplement the existing protein content and increase satiety.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains wheat, milk, and egg, which are common allergens. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid consumption. The sodium content of 395.24mg per 100g is a factor to consider, especially for those monitoring their sodium intake due to blood pressure concerns. While the product includes squash, it is still classified as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, meaning it has undergone significant industrial processing and contains ingredients not typically found in home kitchens, such as sodium phosphate. Consumers aiming to reduce their intake of ultra-processed foods may wish to consume this product in moderation.
Is O, THAT'S GOOD! THREE CHEESE ROTINI PASTA & CHEESE SAUCE healthy?
This product has a FoodScore of 46/100, indicating it is a 'Decent' choice. It provides protein, calcium, and Vitamin A, but it is also classified as an ultra-processed food (NOVA 4) and contains a notable amount of sodium. Its healthfulness depends on how it fits into your overall dietary pattern.
How does O, THAT'S GOOD! compare to a generic macaroni and cheese?
Compared to a generic macaroni and cheese, O, THAT'S GOOD! THREE CHEESE ROTINI PASTA & CHEESE SAUCE includes butternut squash, which contributes to its Vitamin A content. However, both are typically ultra-processed and can be high in sodium. For example, a standard Kraft Macaroni & Cheese might have similar sodium levels, but this O, THAT'S GOOD! SKU offers a vegetable inclusion.
What is the significance of 'butternut squash' in the ingredient list?
The inclusion of butternut squash is a notable feature, as it contributes to the product's Vitamin A content (66% DV per 100g). This adds a vegetable component that is not always present in similar pasta and cheese dishes, offering a source of this important micronutrient.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The declared serving size is 7.5 ounces (approximately 212g). This provides 293 calories, 15.1g of protein, and 838mg of sodium. For many, this could be a substantial portion for a single meal, and it's important to consider the sodium contribution within your daily intake.
Can this product be frozen for later consumption?
The manufacturer's instructions typically advise against freezing this type of prepared pasta and cheese product, as freezing and reheating can alter the texture of the pasta and the cheese sauce, making it less palatable. It is best consumed by the 'use by' date and stored as directed on the package.