TRADER JOE'S Vegetable Radiatore Organic Pasta scores 73/100 (Good), primarily driven by its **protein content** and minimal processing.
Scores 73/100 (Good) on FoodScore, indicating a generally beneficial nutritional profile.
Provides 12.5g of protein per 100g, contributing significantly to daily needs.
Contains 0g of added sugar and 0g of saturated fat per 100g.
Classified as NOVA class 2, indicating it is a minimally processed culinary ingredient.
Offers a good source of Vitamin A (40% DV) and Iron (14% DV).
Scores +26 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
3.61g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
12.5g
25% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
26.96mg
1% of Daily Value
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What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.6g)+3
Protein (12.5g)+8
Micronutrients (Iron, Vitamin A)+4
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
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What holds it back
Nothing significantly penalised here. Well done.
Why it scores 73
TRADER JOE'S Vegetable Radiatore Organic Pasta achieves a FoodScore of 73 out of 100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score is largely influenced by several positive nutritional attributes. The product provides 12.5g of protein per 100g, which contributes a substantial +8 bonus to its score. Additionally, it contains 3.61g of fiber per 100g, earning a +3 bonus. Micronutrient contributions are notable, with 40% Daily Value (DV) for Vitamin A and 14% DV for Iron per 100g, together adding +4 to the score. The ingredient list, featuring organic durum wheat semolina, spinach, beet, red bell pepper, and paprika, indicates a NOVA class 2 classification, meaning it is a processed culinary ingredient. This minimal processing level earns a significant +8 bonus. The product contains 0g of added sugar, 0g of saturated fat, and a low sodium content of 26.96mg per 100g, avoiding any penalties in these areas. Compared to a generic whole-grain pasta baseline, this TRADER JOE'S product offers similar benefits in terms of protein and fiber, with the added benefit of naturally occurring vitamins from the included vegetables.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in trader joe's, vegetable radiatore organic pasta actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Muscle Maintenance and Satiety
This pasta provides 12.5g of protein per 100g, which is a meaningful amount for a grain-based product. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function. Including protein-rich foods in meals can also contribute to feelings of fullness and satiety, potentially aiding in weight management by reducing overall calorie intake. The protein content in TRADER JOE'S Vegetable Radiatore Organic Pasta makes it a more robust option compared to many standard refined grain pastas.
Good Source of Essential Micronutrients
TRADER JOE'S Vegetable Radiatore Organic Pasta is a good source of Vitamin A, providing 40% of the Daily Value per 100g, and Iron, offering 14% of the Daily Value. Vitamin A is crucial for vision, immune function, and skin health, while iron is vital for oxygen transport in the blood and preventing fatigue. The inclusion of ingredients like spinach, beet, and red bell pepper naturally contributes to these micronutrient levels, enhancing the nutritional profile beyond that of plain pasta.
Contributes to Dietary Fiber Intake
With 3.61g of fiber per 100g, this pasta contributes to your daily fiber needs. Dietary fiber is important for maintaining digestive health, promoting regular bowel movements, and helping to regulate blood sugar levels. While not as high in fiber as some whole-grain options, this amount is still beneficial and can help you reach the recommended daily intake when combined with other fiber-rich foods in your diet.
TRADER JOE'S Vegetable Radiatore Organic Pasta scores 73/100 (Good), primarily driven by its protein content and minimal processing.
How to eat it
Pasta is a versatile staple in many US diets, often served as a main course or side dish. A typical serving size for this product is 0.75 cups. It's commonly paired with sauces, vegetables, and protein sources.
Pair with a lean protein source like grilled chicken or lentils to create a complete and balanced meal.
Add a generous portion of non-starchy vegetables, such as broccoli or zucchini, to boost fiber and micronutrient intake.
Opt for a light, tomato-based sauce instead of creamy, high-fat sauces to manage calorie and saturated fat intake.
Consider using a smaller portion of pasta (e.g., 0.5 cup) and increasing the volume of vegetables and protein to enhance nutrient density.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains organic durum wheat semolina, which means it contains wheat and is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease or a wheat allergy. The ingredient list is relatively clean, without artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. The inclusion of vegetables like spinach, beet, and red bell pepper is generally beneficial, but individuals with specific sensitivities to these vegetables should be aware. Overall, for most consumers without wheat allergies, this pasta presents a low-risk nutritional profile with no significant cautions regarding additives or common allergens beyond wheat.
Is TRADER JOE'S Vegetable Radiatore Organic Pasta healthy?
TRADER JOE'S Vegetable Radiatore Organic Pasta scores 73/100, placing it in the 'Good' category. It is a good source of protein and fiber, and provides beneficial micronutrients like Vitamin A and Iron. It contains no added sugar or saturated fat, making it a nutritionally sound choice as part of a balanced diet.
How does TRADER JOE'S Vegetable Radiatore Organic Pasta compare to other pastas?
Compared to a generic refined white pasta, TRADER JOE'S Vegetable Radiatore Organic Pasta offers a similar protein and fiber content, but with the added benefit of naturally occurring vitamins from the vegetables. When compared to a whole-grain pasta like Barilla Whole Grain Pasta, it may have slightly less fiber but still provides a valuable nutrient contribution due to its vegetable content.
What is 'organic durum wheat semolina'?
Organic durum wheat semolina is a coarse, purified wheat middling of durum wheat, used in making pasta. 'Organic' indicates that the wheat was grown and processed according to organic farming standards. It is the primary ingredient in this pasta and provides its carbohydrate and protein base.
What is a reasonable portion size for this pasta?
The declared serving size is 0.75 cups. For a balanced meal, this can be a good starting point. However, individual needs vary based on activity level and dietary goals. It's often beneficial to combine this portion with ample vegetables and a lean protein to create a more filling and nutrient-dense meal without over-consuming carbohydrates.
Can I use this pasta in gluten-free recipes?
No, this pasta is made from organic durum wheat semolina, which contains gluten. It is not suitable for gluten-free diets or individuals with celiac disease. Consumers seeking gluten-free options should look for pastas made from ingredients like rice, corn, or legumes.