SMART MADE TURKEY SAUSAGE & ROASTED VEGETABLE LASAGNA BAKE
SMART MADE TURKEY SAUSAGE & ROASTED VEGETABLE LASAGNA BAKE scores 51/100 (Decent), primarily driven by its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food, despite some positive nutrient contributions.
This SMART MADE lasagna scores 51/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile for a prepared meal.
It provides a notable 7.07g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
The product is classified as NOVA 3 (processed), which incurs a penalty in its FoodScore.
Compared to a home-cooked version, it offers convenience but may contain more processed ingredients.
Consider this as an occasional meal, mindful of its sodium content at 222.97mg per 100g.
Scores +5 points above the prepared category average (46/100 across 1958 foods).
Fiber
1.8g
6% of Daily Value
Protein
7.07g
14% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
222.97mg
10% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (1.8g)+1
Protein (7.1g)+3
Micronutrients (Vitamin A)+2
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What holds it back
Processed (NOVA 3)-5
Why it scores 51
The SMART MADE TURKEY SAUSAGE & ROASTED VEGETABLE LASAGNA BAKE achieves a FoodScore of 51/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of positive and negative nutritional attributes. On the positive side, the product receives bonus points for its protein content, providing 7.07g per 100g, which can contribute to satiety. It also contains 1.8g of fiber per 100g, earning a small bonus. Micronutrient contributions are also noted, with a significant 39% DV of Vitamin A per 100g. However, a primary factor influencing the score is its classification as NOVA 3, indicating it is a processed food. This classification incurs a 5-point penalty, reflecting that processed foods often contain ingredients that may not align with whole food dietary patterns. The ingredient list includes items like cooked whole wheat macaroni product and low fat ricotta cheese, which are processed components. While it contains 0g of added sugar, the sodium content is 222.97mg per 100g, which is moderate for a prepared meal. Compared to a home-cooked lasagna made with whole ingredients, this SMART MADE product offers convenience but may contain a higher proportion of processed components and less control over specific ingredient sourcing.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in smart made turkey sausage & roasted vegetable lasagna bake actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein for Muscle Maintenance
This SMART MADE lasagna provides 7.07g of protein per 100g, which is a meaningful contribution to daily protein intake. Protein is essential for the repair and growth of tissues, including muscle. Including adequate protein in meals can also help with satiety, potentially reducing overall calorie intake throughout the day. For individuals looking for a convenient meal option that supports their protein needs, this product can be a suitable choice.
Good Source of Vitamin A
The SMART MADE TURKEY SAUSAGE & ROASTED VEGETABLE LASAGNA BAKE is a good source of Vitamin A, supplying 39% of the Daily Value per 100g. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin crucial for vision, immune function, and skin health. The presence of ingredients like roasted red bell pepper puree and carrots likely contributes to this nutrient. Incorporating foods rich in Vitamin A supports various bodily functions and overall well-being.
Contains Dietary Fiber
With 1.8g of fiber per 100g, this product contributes to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health and maintaining regular bowel movements. It can also help regulate blood sugar levels and contribute to a feeling of fullness. The inclusion of cooked whole wheat macaroni product and various vegetables in the blend helps provide this fiber, making it a better option than refined grain alternatives.
SMART MADE TURKEY SAUSAGE & ROASTED VEGETABLE LASAGNA BAKE scores 51/100 (Decent), primarily driven by its NOVA 3 classification as a processed food, despite some positive nutrient contributions.
How to eat it
Prepared lasagnas like this SMART MADE product are typically consumed as a single-serving meal, often for lunch or dinner, due to their convenience. They are designed to be heated and eaten directly from the package or a plate. Be mindful that the entire package constitutes one serving.
To enhance the meal's nutritional value, pair this lasagna with a large side salad rich in non-starchy vegetables and a light vinaigrette.
Consider adding a handful of fresh spinach or other greens to the lasagna during heating to boost vegetable intake and fiber.
If you are monitoring sodium intake, balance this meal with other low-sodium foods throughout the day, as prepared meals can contribute significantly to daily sodium.
For a more balanced meal, consider a smaller portion of the lasagna alongside a lean protein source like grilled chicken or fish, if you find the single package too large.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains common allergens including milk and wheat, as declared on the label. Individuals with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should avoid consumption. The ingredient list also includes natural flavors, which can be derived from various sources and may be a concern for some consumers seeking to avoid certain additives. While the sodium content is moderate at 222.97mg per 100g, individuals on a sodium-restricted diet should still account for it, especially if consuming the entire package. There are no artificial sweeteners or colors listed, which may be a preference for some consumers. Overall, for most healthy adults, this product does not present unusual cautions beyond common allergens.
Is SMART MADE TURKEY SAUSAGE & ROASTED VEGETABLE LASAGNA BAKE healthy?
This SMART MADE lasagna scores 51/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile for a prepared meal. It offers a good source of protein and Vitamin A, along with some fiber. However, it is classified as a processed food (NOVA 3), which impacts its overall FoodScore. While it can fit into a balanced diet, it's not considered a whole, unprocessed food.
How does SMART MADE TURKEY SAUSAGE & ROASTED VEGETABLE LASAGNA BAKE compare to a homemade lasagna?
Compared to a homemade lasagna, this SMART MADE product offers significant convenience. A homemade version typically allows for greater control over ingredients, potentially using less processed components and fresh vegetables. While this product includes cooked whole wheat macaroni product and vegetables, a homemade version might offer a higher density of whole ingredients and potentially lower sodium if prepared carefully. For example, a homemade lasagna might use fresh pasta and more varied vegetables, similar to how a frozen meal like Amy's Kitchen lasagna might compare to a scratch-made dish.
What is 'cooked whole wheat macaroni product' in the ingredient list?
The term 'cooked whole wheat macaroni product' refers to pasta made from whole wheat flour that has been pre-cooked before being added to the lasagna. Using whole wheat contributes to the product's fiber content, which is a positive nutritional aspect. It's a common component in prepared meals to ensure consistent texture and cooking time.
What is a reasonable portion size for this lasagna?
The serving size for this product is one entire package. All the nutrient values provided are based on consuming the whole package. For most adults, this is a reasonable portion for a single meal. If you are aiming for a smaller meal or managing calorie intake, you could consider consuming half the package and supplementing with a large salad or extra vegetables.
Can I freeze this SMART MADE lasagna if I don't eat it all?
This product is sold as a frozen meal, designed to be heated from frozen. If you have already heated it and have leftovers, it is generally not recommended to refreeze cooked food for quality and safety reasons. It's best to consume the entire heated portion or discard any leftovers within a safe timeframe, typically within 3-4 days if refrigerated promptly.