STOUFFER'S PEPPERONI PIZZA MAC & CHEESE PEPPERONI, MOZZARELLA, & WHITE CHEDDAR MAC & CHEESE WITH MARINARA SAUCE BOWL, PEPPERONI PIZZA MAC & CHEESE
STOUFFER'S PEPPERONI PIZZA MAC & CHEESE receives a FoodScore of 20/100 (Avoid), primarily due to the presence of trans fat and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
FoodScore: 20/100 (Avoid) due to its nutritional profile.
Contains 7.32g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
High in sodium (381.31mg/100g) and saturated fat (4.04g/100g).
This product is NOVA class 4, indicating it is ultra-processed.
Consider this item as an occasional meal rather than a regular dietary staple.
Scores -13 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
0.8g
3% of Daily Value
Protein
7.32g
15% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0.3g
1% of Daily Value
Sodium
381.31mg
17% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (7.3g)+3
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (4.0g)-2
Sodium (381.3mg)-1
Trans fat present-20
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 20
STOUFFER'S PEPPERONI PIZZA MAC & CHEESE scores 20 out of 100, placing it in the 'Avoid' category. This score is significantly impacted by several factors. A major penalty is applied due to the presence of trans fat, even in small amounts (0.25g per 100g), which is a key detractor from its nutritional quality. Furthermore, its classification as a NOVA class 4 ultra-processed food incurs a substantial penalty, reflecting its extensive industrial processing and formulation with ingredients like 'mechanically separated chicken' and various preservatives such as BHA and BHT. While it offers 7.32g of protein per 100g, earning a small bonus, this is offset by significant penalties for its high sodium content (381.31mg per 100g) and elevated saturated fat (4.04g per 100g). Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, this STOUFFER'S product contains considerably more sodium and saturated fat, alongside the presence of trans fats, which are typically absent in less processed dairy options.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in stouffer's pepperoni pizza mac & cheese pepperoni, mozzarella, & white cheddar mac & cheese with marinara sauce bowl, pepperoni pizza mac & cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Protein
This STOUFFER'S product provides 7.32g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to muscle maintenance and satiety. Protein is an essential macronutrient involved in numerous bodily functions, including tissue repair and enzyme production. While not a primary protein source, it can contribute to your daily protein intake when consumed as part of a balanced meal.
Calcium Contribution
With 120.96mg of calcium per 100g, this item contributes 9% of the Daily Value for calcium. Calcium is crucial for bone health and density, as well as nerve function and muscle contraction. While not a high-calcium food, it can add to your total daily intake, especially when combined with other calcium-rich foods.
Convenience for Quick Meals
For individuals with limited time for meal preparation, this product offers convenience as a ready-to-heat option. Its pre-portioned nature can be useful for managing hunger quickly. However, it is important to balance such convenience foods with more nutrient-dense options throughout the day to ensure overall dietary quality.
STOUFFER'S PEPPERONI PIZZA MAC & CHEESE receives a FoodScore of 20/100 (Avoid), primarily due to the presence of trans fat and its classification as an ultra-processed food.
How to eat it
STOUFFER'S PEPPERONI PIZZA MAC & CHEESE is typically consumed as a single-serving meal, often heated in a microwave. It's a convenient option for quick lunches or dinners when time is limited. Given its nutritional profile, portion control and pairing with other foods are important.
To enhance the nutritional value, consider pairing this dish with a large side salad rich in non-starchy vegetables.
If consuming the entire package, consider it a larger meal and adjust other meals throughout the day to manage sodium and saturated fat intake.
For a more balanced meal, add a serving of lean protein like grilled chicken or a hard-boiled egg on the side.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains several ingredients that warrant consideration. The presence of sodium nitrite, BHA, and BHT as preservatives in the pepperoni is notable. Sodium nitrite is commonly used in cured meats, and BHA/BHT are synthetic antioxidants. Individuals with sensitivities to these additives or those looking to minimize intake of synthetic preservatives may wish to limit consumption. The product also contains common allergens such as milk and wheat (from enriched pasta), which are important for individuals with allergies to these ingredients. Due to its high sodium content, individuals managing blood pressure should consume this product sparingly.
Is STOUFFER'S PEPPERONI PIZZA MAC & CHEESE healthy?
STOUFFER'S PEPPERONI PIZZA MAC & CHEESE has a FoodScore of 20/100, indicating it is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption. It is classified as ultra-processed and contains trans fat, high sodium, and saturated fat. While it provides some protein, its overall nutritional profile suggests moderation.
How does STOUFFER'S PEPPERONI PIZZA MAC & CHEESE compare to other frozen mac and cheese products?
Compared to other frozen mac and cheese products, STOUFFER'S PEPPERONI PIZZA MAC & CHEESE's nutritional profile is similar to many in the category, often featuring high levels of sodium and saturated fat. For example, a generic frozen mac and cheese might have comparable levels of these nutrients. However, the inclusion of pepperoni adds to the saturated fat and sodium content, and the presence of trans fat is a specific concern.
What is 'mechanically separated chicken' in the ingredient list?
'Mechanically separated chicken' is a paste-like poultry product produced by forcing bones with attached edible tissue through a sieve under high pressure. It is a common ingredient in some processed meat products, including the pepperoni in this dish. Its inclusion contributes to the ultra-processed nature of the food.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The serving size is listed as one package, which is 100g. Given its FoodScore of 20/100, it is advisable to consider this a single, occasional portion rather than a regular part of your diet. If you choose to consume the entire package, be mindful of your intake of sodium and saturated fat from other foods throughout the day.
Can I improve the nutritional value of this meal?
Yes, you can improve the nutritional value by adding fresh vegetables, such as a side salad or steamed broccoli, to increase fiber and micronutrient intake. You could also pair it with a lean protein source to boost satiety and balance the meal. These additions can help to offset some of the less favorable aspects of the product's nutritional profile.