PROGRESSO CREATE MEAL! CAVATAPPI PASTA scores 59/100 (Decent). Its score is primarily driven by its **minimally processed nature** and **protein content**, balanced against its refined grain base.
This PROGRESSO pasta scores 59/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile.
It contains 5.04g of protein per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
As a NOVA class 2 food, it is considered minimally processed.
With only 1.4g of fiber per 100g, it offers less fiber than whole-grain pasta.
This product is sodium-free, containing 0mg of sodium per 100g.
Scores +12 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
1.4g
5% of Daily Value
Protein
5.04g
10% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Protein (5.0g)+1
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
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What holds it back
Nothing significantly penalised here. Well done.
Why it scores 59
PROGRESSO CREATE MEAL! CAVATAPPI PASTA achieves a FoodScore of 59 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of positive and neutral nutritional attributes. The product receives a bonus of +1 for its protein content, providing 5.04g per 100g, which contributes to satiety. A significant positive factor is its NOVA classification as a class 2 food, meaning it is a processed culinary ingredient, earning an additional +8 bonus for being minimally processed. The ingredient list is straightforward, consisting only of cooked cavatappi pasta made from water and semolina wheat. While semolina wheat is a grain, it is a refined grain, which means it lacks the higher fiber content typically found in whole grains. Compared to a generic whole-grain pasta baseline, this PROGRESSO product provides less dietary fiber (1.4g per 100g vs. typically 3-4g for whole wheat pasta). It contains no added sugar and no sodium, which are favorable attributes. The absence of significant micronutrients like potassium, calcium, and iron (all 0-1% DV) prevents a higher score.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in progresso create meal! cavatappi pasta actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a Source of Protein
This PROGRESSO pasta offers 5.04g of protein per 100g. Protein is an essential macronutrient vital for muscle repair and growth, enzyme production, and overall bodily functions. Including protein in meals can help with satiety, contributing to a feeling of fullness after eating. This makes it a useful component in a balanced meal, especially when paired with other protein sources.
Low in Sodium and Added Sugars
PROGRESSO CREATE MEAL! CAVATAPPI PASTA contains 0mg of sodium and 0g of added sugar per 100g. A diet low in sodium is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure, while limiting added sugars can help manage calorie intake and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. These characteristics make it a suitable base for meals where you want to control the sodium and sugar content from other ingredients.
Minimally Processed Base
Classified as a NOVA class 2 food, this pasta is considered a processed culinary ingredient. Its simple ingredient list, primarily semolina wheat and water, means it undergoes minimal processing beyond what is necessary to create the pasta shape. This contrasts with ultra-processed foods that often contain numerous additives, artificial flavors, and colors. Choosing minimally processed foods can be a strategy for a more whole-food-focused diet.
PROGRESSO CREATE MEAL! CAVATAPPI PASTA scores 59/100 (Decent). Its score is primarily driven by its minimally processed nature and protein content, balanced against its refined grain base.
How to eat it
Cavatapi pasta is a versatile base for many meals, commonly used in main dishes like pasta salads, baked casseroles, or served with sauces. A typical serving size is 1.5 cups, which provides a substantial portion for a meal. It's often paired with vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats.
Pair with lean protein sources like grilled chicken, fish, or legumes to create a more balanced meal and enhance satiety.
Increase the fiber content of your meal by adding a generous amount of non-starchy vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers.
Consider using a whole-grain alternative for increased fiber and micronutrients when possible, or mix this pasta with whole-grain pasta to gradually increase fiber intake.
Be mindful of portion sizes; while the product itself is not high in calories, sauces and toppings can significantly increase the overall caloric density of your meal.
Things to keep in mind
The ingredient list for PROGRESSO CREATE MEAL! CAVATAPPI PASTA is very simple: cooked cavatappi pasta (water, semolina wheat). Semolina wheat is a common allergen, so individuals with celiac disease or a wheat allergy should avoid this product. There are no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives listed. The product does not contain significant amounts of sodium or added sugars, which are common concerns in many processed foods. Overall, for individuals without a wheat allergy, this product presents minimal specific cautions beyond general dietary considerations related to refined grains.
Is PROGRESSO CREATE MEAL! CAVATAPPI PASTA healthy?
PROGRESSO CREATE MEAL! CAVATAPPI PASTA scores 59/100, indicating it's a decent option. It provides protein and is free from added sugars and sodium. However, it is made from refined semolina wheat, meaning it offers less fiber and fewer micronutrients compared to whole-grain alternatives. Its healthfulness largely depends on the other ingredients it's paired with in a meal.
How does PROGRESSO CREATE MEAL! CAVATAPPI PASTA compare to Barilla whole wheat pasta?
Compared to a whole wheat pasta like Barilla Whole Grain Pasta, PROGRESSO CREATE MEAL! CAVATAPPI PASTA will typically have less dietary fiber. Whole wheat pasta generally offers more fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health and satiety. Both are good bases for meals, but whole wheat options provide a more nutrient-dense grain choice.
What does 'semolina wheat' mean for my diet?
Semolina wheat is a type of durum wheat that is coarsely ground. It is a refined grain, meaning the bran and germ have been removed during processing. While it provides carbohydrates for energy and some protein, it contains less fiber and fewer vitamins and minerals than whole-grain wheat. It's a common ingredient in many pasta products.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pasta?
The declared serving size for PROGRESSO CREATE MEAL! CAVATAPPI PASTA is 1.5 cups. This provides 136.69 calories per 100g, so a 1.5 cup serving would be approximately 205 calories. This is a reasonable portion for a carbohydrate component in a balanced meal, especially when combined with vegetables and a protein source to increase overall nutrient density and satiety.
Can I use this pasta in a gluten-free diet?
No, PROGRESSO CREATE MEAL! CAVATAPPI PASTA is made from semolina wheat, which contains gluten. Individuals following a gluten-free diet due to celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this product and opt for certified gluten-free pasta alternatives made from ingredients like rice, corn, or legumes.