FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentdairyVELVEETA· 3 ONZ

VELVEETA CHICKEN & BROCCOLI ORZO PASTA WITH CREAMY CHEESE SAUCE, BROCCOLI FLORETS, & SEASONING SKILLETS, CHICKEN & BROCCOLI

VELVEETA CHICKEN & BROCCOLI ORZO PASTA scores 50/100 (Decent). Its **ultra-processed nature** and high sodium content are the primary factors limiting a higher score.

  • This VELVEETA product scores 50/100 (Decent) on FoodScore.
  • It provides 11.9g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
  • A significant concern is the high sodium content at 654.76mg per 100g.
  • As a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, it differs from less processed dairy options.
  • Consider portion control and pairing with fresh vegetables to balance the meal.
  • Scores +17 points above the dairy category average (33/100 across 5088 foods).
Fiber
2.4g
9% of Daily Value
Protein
11.9g
24% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
654.76mg
28% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (2.4g)+2
Protein (11.9g)+7
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron)+4
What holds it back
Sodium (654.8mg)-3
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 50

VELVEETA CHICKEN & BROCCOLI ORZO PASTA WITH CREAMY CHEESE SAUCE receives a FoodScore of 50 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. This score reflects a balance of some beneficial nutrients against factors associated with highly processed foods. The product earns bonus points for its protein content, providing 11.9g per 100g, which can contribute to satiety. It also receives points for fiber (2.4g per 100g) and certain micronutrients like calcium (12% DV) and iron (13% DV). However, significant penalties are applied due to its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which subtracts 10 points. Additionally, the high sodium content of 654.76mg per 100g incurs a penalty. Ingredients such as canola oil and whey protein concentrate are common in such formulations. Compared to a generic dairy equivalent, which might offer similar calcium but less sodium and processing, this VELVEETA product presents a different nutritional profile due to its convenience meal format.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in velveeta chicken & broccoli orzo pasta with creamy cheese sauce, broccoli florets, & seasoning skillets, chicken & broccoli actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Protein

This VELVEETA product provides 11.9g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to your daily protein intake. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and it plays a role in various bodily functions. Including adequate protein in meals can also help with satiety, potentially reducing overall calorie intake later in the day. For individuals looking for a quick meal option that contributes to their protein needs, this product can serve that purpose.

Contains Essential Minerals

The product offers 12% of the Daily Value for calcium and 13% for iron per 100g. Calcium is crucial for bone health and nerve function, while iron is vital for oxygen transport in the blood and preventing fatigue. While not a primary source of all micronutrients, these contributions can help meet daily requirements, especially when combined with other nutrient-dense foods in the diet. It's important to consider the overall dietary context for mineral intake.

Convenient Meal Option

As a pre-packaged meal, this VELVEETA product offers significant convenience for individuals with limited time for meal preparation. Its shelf-stable nature and ease of cooking make it a practical choice for quick lunches or dinners. While convenience foods often have trade-offs in terms of processing, they can play a role in a balanced diet by preventing skipped meals or reliance on less nutritious fast-food options when time is short.

How to eat it

This VELVEETA SKILLET is designed as a quick, convenient meal, often consumed as a main dish for lunch or dinner. A typical portion is the entire package, which provides the stated nutritional values. Be mindful of the sodium content when planning other meals for the day.

To enhance the nutritional value, consider adding extra fresh or frozen vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or more broccoli during preparation.
Pair this meal with a side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to increase fiber and micronutrient intake.
If consuming the entire package, consider it a larger portion and balance it with lighter, lower-sodium meals for the rest of the day.
For a more balanced meal, add a source of lean protein such as grilled chicken breast or chickpeas, especially if you are sharing the meal.
Things to keep in mind

Individuals with wheat or milk allergies should be aware that this product contains both, as indicated by the enriched pasta product and cheese sauce ingredients. The presence of sodium phosphate and sodium alginate are common food additives used for texture and preservation in processed foods. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit intake of highly processed foods containing multiple additives. The high sodium content (654.76mg per 100g) is a consideration for those monitoring their sodium intake, such as individuals with high blood pressure. There are no specific warnings for children or diabetic readers beyond general dietary guidelines for processed foods.

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Reader questions
Is VELVEETA CHICKEN & BROCCOLI ORZO PASTA healthy?
This VELVEETA product scores 50/100, indicating it is a 'Decent' choice. It provides protein and some essential minerals like calcium and iron. However, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its high sodium content are factors to consider for overall dietary health. It can fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with other nutrient-dense foods.
How does VELVEETA CHICKEN & BROCCOLI ORZO PASTA compare to a homemade pasta dish?
Compared to a homemade pasta dish with chicken and broccoli, this VELVEETA product is likely to be higher in sodium and contain more food additives for stability and flavor. A homemade version would typically allow for greater control over ingredient quality, sodium levels, and the amount of fresh vegetables, potentially offering a more nutrient-dense profile with less processing. For example, a homemade dish might use fresh cheese instead of a cheese sauce with multiple ingredients.
What is 'enriched pasta product' in the ingredient list?
Enriched pasta product refers to pasta made from refined grains, typically wheat semolina and wheat flour, that have had certain nutrients added back after processing. These added nutrients often include niacin, ferrous sulfate (iron), thiamin mononitrate (vitamin B1), riboflavin (vitamin B2), and folic acid. This process helps to restore some of the vitamins and minerals lost during the refining of the grain.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The declared serving size is 3 ounces. However, the entire package is often consumed as a single meal. If you consume the whole package, be aware that the nutrient values will be higher than per 100g. For example, the sodium content would be significantly higher than the 654.76mg per 100g. Adjust your portion based on your individual dietary needs and goals.
Can this product be part of a weight management plan?
This product provides 321.43 calories per 100g, which can contribute to your daily caloric intake. While it offers protein for satiety, its calorie density and sodium content should be considered. For weight management, focusing on whole, unprocessed foods, and monitoring portion sizes is generally recommended. This product can be included occasionally, but it's important to balance it with lower-calorie, higher-fiber options.
Does this product contain real cheese?
Yes, the ingredient list for the cheese sauce includes Cheddar cheese (milk, cheese culture, salt, enzymes). However, it also contains other dairy components like whey, whey protein concentrate, and milk protein concentrate, along with various stabilizers and colors. This indicates a blend of real cheese with other ingredients to create the creamy cheese sauce.

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