FoodScore
0/ 100
AvoiddairyPASTA RONI· 1 cup

PASTA RONI PARMESAN & ROMANO CORKSCREW PASTA WITH PARMESAN AND ROMANO CHEESES, PARMESAN & ROMANO

PASTA RONI PARMESAN & ROMANO CORKSCREW PASTA scores 27/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **trans fat content** and **high sodium level**, despite some protein and fiber.

  • PASTA RONI PARMESAN & ROMANO scores 27/100, indicating it should be avoided as a regular dietary staple.
  • A single serving contains 1200mg of sodium, which is 52% of the Daily Value.
  • The product is classified as NOVA 4, meaning it is an ultra-processed food.
  • It provides 12.11g of protein and 3g of fiber per 100g serving.
  • Consider this product for occasional consumption, focusing on smaller portions.
  • Scores -6 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
3g
11% of Daily Value
Protein
12.11g
24% of Daily Value
Added sugar
1.5g
3% of Daily Value
Sodium
1200mg
52% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3g)+3
Protein (12.1g)+8
Micronutrients (Folate)+2
What holds it back
Sodium (1200mg)-6
Trans fat present-20
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 27

PASTA RONI PARMESAN & ROMANO CORKSCREW PASTA receives a FoodScore of 27 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is significantly impacted by the presence of trans fat, which incurs a substantial penalty of 20 points. Additionally, the product is penalized for its high sodium content, providing 1200mg per 100g, which is a considerable amount for a single serving. As a NOVA 4 classified food, it is considered ultra-processed, leading to a further 10-point deduction. On the positive side, the product gains points for its protein content, offering 12.11g per 100g, and for its fiber, with 3g per 100g. It also receives a small bonus for its folate content. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which typically has lower sodium and no trans fats, this PASTA RONI product presents a less favorable nutritional profile due to these specific factors, particularly the trans fat from partially hydrogenated oils (though not explicitly listed as such, the penalty indicates its presence or a similar fat source).

Health benefits

What the nutrients in pasta roni parmesan & romano corkscrew pasta with parmesan and romano cheeses, parmesan & romano actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Protein

PASTA RONI PARMESAN & ROMANO provides 12.11 grams of protein per 100g serving, contributing to daily protein intake. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in muscle repair, enzyme production, and overall bodily function. While not a primary protein source, it can contribute to the protein content of a meal when combined with other protein-rich foods.

Contains Dietary Fiber

This product offers 3 grams of dietary fiber per 100g serving. Fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to feelings of fullness. While this amount is not exceptionally high, it can still play a role in increasing your daily fiber intake, especially when paired with other fiber-rich ingredients.

Fortified with Folate

PASTA RONI PARMESAN & ROMANO is fortified with folate, providing 18% of the Daily Value per 100g. Folate is a B vitamin crucial for cell division and the formation of red blood cells. This fortification can help individuals meet their daily requirements for this important micronutrient, particularly beneficial for those who may have insufficient intake from other dietary sources.

How to eat it

PASTA RONI PARMESAN & ROMANO is typically consumed as a side dish or a quick meal component. It is often prepared by adding water and butter, then cooked on the stovetop. While convenient, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes and how it fits into your overall dietary pattern.

To balance the meal, pair this pasta with a lean protein source like grilled chicken or fish and a generous serving of non-starchy vegetables.
Consider using half the recommended seasoning packet to reduce the sodium content per serving.
Use a smaller portion of the prepared pasta, perhaps half a cup instead of a full cup, to manage calorie and sodium intake.
Incorporate fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance flavor without adding more sodium.
If using as a main dish, add extra vegetables like spinach or broccoli to increase fiber and micronutrient density.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware that PASTA RONI PARMESAN & ROMANO contains trans fat, which is associated with adverse health effects. The ingredient list also includes maltodextrin, a carbohydrate that can impact blood sugar levels, and natural flavor, which can be a blend of various components. Individuals with allergies should note the presence of common allergens such as wheat, milk, and soy in the ingredient list. The high sodium content (1200mg per 100g) is a significant concern, particularly for individuals managing blood pressure or those advised to follow a low-sodium diet. Children and individuals with specific dietary restrictions should consume this product in moderation.

Swap suggestions
Very good
MARANATHA, ORGANIC CREAMY ROASTED ALMOND BUTTER
Score85
Very good
MARANATHA, ORGANIC RAW ALMOND BUTTER CREAMY
Score85
Very good
MARANATHA, ORGANIC ROASTED CREAMY ALMOND BUTTER
Score85
Very good
MARANATHA ORGANIC CRUNCHY RAW ALMOND BUTTER, CRUNCHY
Score85
Very good
OPEN NATURE PEANUT BUTTER DATE BARS, PEANUT BUTTER
Score85
Very good
ONCE AGAIN CREAMY MAPLE SWEETENED MAPLE ALMOND BUTTER, CREAMY MAPLE SWEETENED
Score84
Reader questions
Is PASTA RONI PARMESAN & ROMANO healthy?
PASTA RONI PARMESAN & ROMANO receives a FoodScore of 27/100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This is primarily due to its trans fat content and high sodium level. While it offers some protein and fiber, its overall nutritional profile suggests it's not a healthy choice for regular consumption.
How does PASTA RONI compare to other pasta dishes?
Compared to a plain whole wheat pasta, PASTA RONI PARMESAN & ROMANO has significantly higher sodium and contains trans fats, which are generally absent in plain pasta. For example, a simple pasta dish made with Barilla whole grain pasta and a homemade sauce would likely have a much better nutritional score due to lower sodium and no trans fats.
What is 'natural flavor' in the ingredient list?
The term 'natural flavor' on an ingredient list, such as in PASTA RONI, refers to a substance derived from a natural source (like a spice, fruit, or vegetable) whose primary function is flavoring. It can be a complex mixture of many components, and the exact composition is proprietary to the manufacturer. It's generally used to enhance the taste profile of the product.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The declared serving size for PASTA RONI PARMESAN & ROMANO is 1 cup. However, given its high sodium and trans fat content, a more reasonable portion for occasional consumption might be half a cup, especially if you are mindful of your daily intake of these nutrients. Always consider how it fits into your overall meal.
Can I reduce the sodium content when preparing PASTA RONI?
Yes, you can reduce the sodium content of PASTA RONI PARMESAN & ROMANO by using only a portion of the included seasoning packet. For example, using half the packet would significantly lower the sodium per serving. You can then add other herbs and spices to enhance flavor without increasing sodium.

Explore more

CategoryAll dairy & alternatives BrandAll PASTA RONI SKUs Competitor · 85/100MARANATHA, ORGANIC CREAMY ROASTED ALMOND BUTTER Competitor · 85/100MARANATHA, ORGANIC RAW ALMOND BUTTER CREAMY Head-to-headPASTA RONI PARMESAN & ROMANO CORKSCREW PASTA WITH PARMESAN AND ROMANO CHEESES, PARMESAN & ROMANO vs. MARANATHA, ORGANIC CREAMY ROASTED ALMOND BUTTER Head-to-headPASTA RONI PARMESAN & ROMANO CORKSCREW PASTA WITH PARMESAN AND ROMANO CHEESES, PARMESAN & ROMANO vs. MARANATHA, ORGANIC RAW ALMOND BUTTER CREAMY Head-to-headPASTA RONI PARMESAN & ROMANO CORKSCREW PASTA WITH PARMESAN AND ROMANO CHEESES, PARMESAN & ROMANO vs. MARANATHA, ORGANIC ROASTED CREAMY ALMOND BUTTER Head-to-headPASTA RONI PARMESAN & ROMANO CORKSCREW PASTA WITH PARMESAN AND ROMANO CHEESES, PARMESAN & ROMANO vs. MARANATHA ORGANIC CRUNCHY RAW ALMOND BUTTER, CRUNCHY

Data & references