AvoidgrainPasta Roni· 2 oz (56 g /about 3/4 inch circle dry pasta & 1-1/3 Tbsp sauce mix) As
Pasta Roni Angel Hair Pasta With Herbs 4.8 Ounce Paper Box
Pasta Roni Angel Hair Pasta With Herbs receives a FoodScore of 29/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and the presence of trans fat.
Pasta Roni Angel Hair Pasta With Herbs scores 29/100 (Avoid) on FoodScore.
It provides 12.1g of protein per 100g, contributing to daily protein intake.
A significant concern is the 1110.71mg of sodium per 100g, which is high.
This product is classified as NOVA 4 (ultra-processed), unlike generic whole-grain pasta.
Consider this product for occasional use, focusing on portion control due to its sodium content.
Scores -18 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
3.11g
11% of Daily Value
Protein
12.11g
24% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1110.71mg
48% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.1g)+3
Protein (12.1g)+8
Micronutrients (Iron, Riboflavin)+4
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What holds it back
Sodium (1110.7mg)-6
Trans fat present-20
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 29
Pasta Roni Angel Hair Pasta With Herbs earns a FoodScore of 29 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is largely influenced by its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. The presence of trans fat, even in small amounts (0.02g per 100g), also contributes a notable penalty. While the product contains 12.11g of protein and 3.11g of fiber per 100g, offering some nutritional benefits, these are outweighed by other factors. A major detractor is the high sodium content, at 1110.71mg per 100g, which is a substantial penalty. The ingredient list includes palm oil and monosodium glutamate, common in processed foods. Compared to a generic whole-grain pasta baseline, Pasta Roni offers less fiber and significantly more sodium, alongside the processing level differences.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in pasta roni angel hair pasta with herbs 4.8 ounce paper box actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Iron
This product provides 4.18mg of iron per 100g, which is 23% of the Daily Value. Iron is an essential mineral crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and overall energy levels. Including iron-rich foods in the diet can help prevent iron deficiency. While not a primary source of all micronutrients, the iron content is a notable contribution from this pasta dish.
Contribution to Protein Intake
Pasta Roni Angel Hair Pasta With Herbs contains 12.11g of protein per 100g. Protein is vital for muscle repair and growth, enzyme production, and maintaining satiety. For individuals looking to increase their protein intake, this product can contribute to daily needs, especially when paired with additional protein sources like lean meats or legumes.
Provides Dietary Fiber
With 3.11g of fiber per 100g, this product offers a modest amount of dietary fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain bowel regularity and contributing to feelings of fullness. While not a high-fiber food, it can still play a small role in meeting daily fiber recommendations, particularly when combined with other fiber-rich foods.
Pasta Roni Angel Hair Pasta With Herbs receives a FoodScore of 29/100 (Avoid), primarily due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and the presence of trans fat.
How to eat it
Pasta Roni Angel Hair Pasta With Herbs is typically consumed as a quick side dish or a light meal. A common portion is around 2 ounces dry, which expands when cooked. It's often prepared with water and butter, adding to its calorie and fat content. The convenience factor is a primary reason for its popularity.
To enhance the nutritional profile, pair Pasta Roni with a large serving of non-starchy vegetables like broccoli or spinach.
Consider adding a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or chickpeas, to make it a more balanced and satisfying meal.
Use half the recommended amount of sauce mix to reduce sodium intake, and season with fresh herbs instead.
Be mindful of portion sizes; the 2 oz dry serving size is a reasonable starting point for a side dish.
Swap out butter for a small amount of heart-healthy olive oil during preparation to reduce saturated fat.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in Pasta Roni Angel Hair Pasta With Herbs, at 1110.71mg per 100g, which can contribute significantly to daily sodium limits. Individuals with hypertension or those monitoring sodium intake should consume this product sparingly. The ingredient list includes monosodium glutamate (MSG), which some individuals report sensitivity to, experiencing symptoms like headaches or flushing. The product also contains common allergens such as wheat, whey, and soy lecithin, making it unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease, lactose intolerance, or soy allergies. The presence of artificial colors, Yellow 5 and Yellow 6, may be a concern for some consumers, particularly parents of children with sensitivities to food dyes.
Is Pasta Roni Angel Hair Pasta With Herbs considered healthy?
With a FoodScore of 29/100, Pasta Roni Angel Hair Pasta With Herbs is classified as 'Avoid.' This is largely due to its ultra-processed nature, high sodium content, and the presence of trans fat. While it offers some protein and iron, it is not a primary source of essential nutrients and should be consumed in moderation.
How does Pasta Roni compare to other pasta brands?
Compared to a generic whole-grain pasta, Pasta Roni Angel Hair Pasta With Herbs is significantly higher in sodium and is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4). A brand like Barilla Whole Grain Pasta, for example, would typically have much lower sodium and higher fiber content, making it a more nutritionally favorable choice.
What is 'palm oil' doing in this product?
Palm oil is a common ingredient in many processed foods, including Pasta Roni Angel Hair Pasta With Herbs. It is used for its texture, stability, and cost-effectiveness. However, palm oil is high in saturated fat, which can contribute to increased LDL cholesterol levels when consumed in excess.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pasta?
The declared serving size is 2 oz (56g) dry pasta, which is approximately 3/4 inch circle dry pasta and 1-1/3 Tbsp sauce mix. This provides about 193 calories and 622mg of sodium per serving. Being mindful of this portion size can help manage calorie and sodium intake.
Can I make this pasta less processed?
While the base product is ultra-processed, you can improve the overall meal by adding fresh, whole ingredients. Incorporate a generous amount of fresh vegetables, lean protein, and use only a portion of the included sauce mix, opting for your own herbs and spices to reduce the reliance on the processed components.