TRUROOTS ANCIENT GRAIN ELBOWS PASTA scores 68/100, indicating a good nutritional choice, primarily driven by its **whole grain composition** and **minimal processing**.
This pasta earns a FoodScore of 68/100 (Good).
It provides 3.6g of fiber and 7.1g of protein per 100g serving.
With 0g of added sugar and 0mg of sodium, it is a low-sodium and no-added-sugar option.
As a NOVA class 2 food, it is minimally processed compared to many refined grain pastas.
This product is a suitable whole-grain base for various meals.
Scores +21 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
3.61g
13% of Daily Value
Protein
7.14g
14% 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
Fiber (3.6g)+3
Protein (7.1g)+3
Micronutrients (Iron, Phosphorus)+4
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
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What holds it back
Nothing significantly penalised here. Well done.
Why it scores 68
TRUROOTS ANCIENT GRAIN ELBOWS PASTA achieves a FoodScore of 68 out of 100, placing it in the 'Good' category. This score is primarily due to its nutritional composition and minimal processing. The product receives bonus points for its fiber content, providing 3.6 grams per 100g, which contributes positively to digestive health. Protein content also adds to its score, with 7.1 grams per 100g. Furthermore, the presence of micronutrients like iron (14% DV) and phosphorus (not explicitly listed in %DV but present in whole grains) contributes to its overall score. A significant positive factor is its classification as NOVA class 2, meaning it is a processed culinary ingredient, which earns a substantial bonus for being minimally processed. The ingredient list, featuring only organic brown rice and organic amaranth, reflects its simple formulation. Unlike many conventional pastas, it contains 0 grams of added sugar and 0 mg of sodium, avoiding common penalties. When compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, TRUROOTS performs comparably well due to its similar nutrient profile and lack of undesirable additives.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in truroots ancient grain elbows pasta actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Supports Digestive Health
This TRUROOTS pasta is a source of dietary fiber, providing 3.6 grams per 100g serving. Fiber is essential for maintaining regular bowel movements and can help prevent constipation. Including fiber-rich foods like this pasta in your diet contributes to a healthy digestive system by adding bulk to stool and supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. The organic brown rice and organic amaranth ingredients naturally contribute to this fiber content.
Provides Sustained Energy
As a whole grain product, TRUROOTS ANCIENT GRAIN ELBOWS PASTA offers complex carbohydrates that are digested slowly, providing a steady release of energy. This can help maintain stable blood sugar levels, preventing the energy spikes and crashes often associated with refined carbohydrates. The combination of carbohydrates with 7.1 grams of protein per 100g further aids in satiety and sustained energy throughout the day, making it a good choice for active individuals.
Contributes Essential Minerals
This pasta contributes to your daily intake of important minerals, notably iron, providing 14% of the Daily Value per 100g. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and energy metabolism. The presence of organic amaranth, an ancient grain, is known to be a good source of various minerals. Including foods like this pasta can help meet your mineral needs, supporting overall bodily functions and preventing deficiencies.
TRUROOTS ANCIENT GRAIN ELBOWS PASTA scores 68/100, indicating a good nutritional choice, primarily driven by its whole grain composition and minimal processing.
How to eat it
TRUROOTS ANCIENT GRAIN ELBOWS PASTA is typically consumed as a main dish component or a side, often paired with sauces, vegetables, and protein. A common serving size is 0.75 cup cooked, which is a reasonable portion for a meal. It serves as a versatile base for a variety of culinary applications.
Pair with lean protein sources like chicken, fish, or legumes to create a balanced meal that supports satiety.
Incorporate a generous amount of non-starchy vegetables to increase fiber, vitamins, and minerals in your meal.
Use a modest amount of heart-healthy fats like olive oil in your sauces to enhance flavor without excessive saturated fat.
Consider using this pasta in cold pasta salads with a vinaigrette dressing for a convenient and nutritious lunch option.
Be mindful of portion sizes; while nutritious, pasta is calorie-dense, so measure your 0.75 cup serving to manage calorie intake.
Things to keep in mind
This product is generally well-tolerated and presents few specific cautions. The ingredient list is very simple, containing only organic brown rice and organic amaranth, with no common food additives like artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It is also free from common allergens such as wheat, soy, milk, and nuts, making it a suitable option for individuals with these sensitivities. There are no declared allergens on the label. Individuals with specific sensitivities to brown rice or amaranth are rare but should exercise caution. Overall, this TRUROOTS pasta is a clean-label product with minimal concerns for most consumers.
TRUROOTS ANCIENT GRAIN ELBOWS PASTA scores 68/100, placing it in the 'Good' category. It is considered a healthy choice due to its whole grain ingredients, providing fiber and protein. It also contains no added sugar or sodium, which are common concerns in many processed foods. Its minimal processing further contributes to its positive nutritional profile.
How does TRUROOTS ANCIENT GRAIN ELBOWS PASTA compare to traditional wheat pasta?
Compared to traditional refined wheat pasta, TRUROOTS ANCIENT GRAIN ELBOWS PASTA offers a gluten-free alternative and often a higher fiber content due to its whole grain nature. While some whole wheat pastas like Barilla Whole Grain Pasta also offer fiber, TRUROOTS uses ancient grains like amaranth which can provide a different nutrient profile. It's a good choice for those seeking diverse whole grain options.
What are the benefits of amaranth in this pasta?
Amaranth is an ancient grain known for its nutritional density. It is a good source of protein, fiber, and several micronutrients, including iron and magnesium. Its inclusion in TRUROOTS pasta enhances the overall nutrient profile, contributing to the product's health benefits beyond just brown rice. It also provides a unique texture and flavor.
What is a recommended portion size for this pasta?
The recommended serving size for TRUROOTS ANCIENT GRAIN ELBOWS PASTA is 0.75 cup (cooked). This portion provides a reasonable amount of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber for a meal. It's important to measure your serving to align with your dietary goals and to ensure balanced calorie intake, especially when pairing with rich sauces.
Is this pasta suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, TRUROOTS ANCIENT GRAIN ELBOWS PASTA is made from organic brown rice and organic amaranth, both of which are naturally gluten-free grains. This makes it a suitable and safe option for individuals following a gluten-free diet due to celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Always check the packaging for specific gluten-free certifications.
Can I use this pasta in cold dishes like pasta salad?
Absolutely. This elbow pasta holds its shape well when cooked, making it an excellent choice for cold pasta salads. Its neutral flavor profile allows it to pair well with various dressings, vegetables, and proteins. It can be a refreshing and nutritious option for meal prep or picnics.