Annie's Organic Real Aged Cheddar Mac & Cheese scores 30/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, largely due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and the presence of trans fat.
This Annie's product received a FoodScore of 30/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile.
It provides 5.25g of fiber per 100g, contributing positively to its score.
A significant concern is the presence of trans fat and its NOVA 4 ultra-processed classification.
Compared to a home-cooked version, this product contains higher sodium (691.23mg/100g) and saturated fat (4.79g/100g).
Consider this product as an occasional convenience food rather than a dietary staple.
Scores -17 points above the prepared category average (47/100 across 231 foods).
Fiber
5.25g
19% of Daily Value
Protein
12.72g
25% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
691.23mg
30% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (5.3g)+6
Protein (12.7g)+8
Micronutrients (Potassium)+2
−
What holds it back
Saturated fat (4.8g)-3
Sodium (691.2mg)-3
Trans fat present-20
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Why it scores 30
Annie's Organic Real Aged Cheddar Mac & Cheese receives a FoodScore of 30/100, primarily influenced by its classification as a NOVA 4 ultra-processed food, which incurs a significant penalty. The ingredient list includes Organic Pasta and Organic Cheddar Cheese, but also components like Sodium Phosphate and Silicon Dioxide (for anticaking), indicative of processing. While the product contains 12.72g of protein and 5.25g of fiber per 100g, earning bonuses, these are offset by several penalties. The saturated fat content of 4.79g per 100g and high sodium at 691.23mg per 100g both contribute negatively to the score. A notable deduction also comes from the presence of trans fat, even in small amounts (0.16g per 100g). Compared to a home-cooked mac and cheese made with whole ingredients, this Annie's product contains a higher level of sodium and includes more processed ingredients, impacting its overall nutritional quality.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in annie's organic real aged cheddar mac & cheese actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Source of Fiber
This product provides 5.25g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to daily fiber intake. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness. While this amount is a positive, it's still beneficial to pair this dish with other fiber-rich foods like vegetables to meet daily recommendations.
Protein Contribution
With 12.72g of protein per 100g, this Annie's mac and cheese offers a moderate amount of protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions. For a single serving, this can contribute to your protein needs, especially when combined with other protein sources throughout the day.
Convenient Meal Option
As a prepared meal, this product offers significant convenience for quick lunches or dinners. Its ease of preparation can be beneficial on busy days when time for cooking from scratch is limited. However, it is important to balance such convenient options with more nutrient-dense, whole food meals.
Annie's Organic Real Aged Cheddar Mac & Cheese scores 30/100 (Poor) on FoodScore, largely due to its classification as an ultra-processed food and the presence of trans fat.
How to eat it
Annie's Organic Real Aged Cheddar Mac & Cheese is typically consumed as a quick meal or side dish. A common portion is the entire package, which is important to consider for calorie and nutrient intake. It's often chosen for its convenience and familiar taste.
To enhance the nutritional value, mix in steamed vegetables like broccoli, peas, or spinach.
Consider serving a smaller portion alongside a lean protein source, such as grilled chicken or fish, and a large salad.
Pair with a side of fresh fruit to add vitamins and antioxidants to your meal.
Use this product as an occasional convenience meal rather than a regular staple in your diet.
Things to keep in mind
This product contains wheat and milk, which are common allergens. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid it due to the organic wheat flour. Those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies should also exercise caution. The ingredient list includes Potassium Chloride and Sodium Phosphate, which are food additives. While generally recognized as safe, individuals with specific health conditions, particularly kidney issues, may need to monitor their intake of phosphorus-containing additives. The high sodium content (691.23mg per 100g) means that consuming the entire package contributes significantly to the daily recommended sodium limit, which could be a concern for individuals managing blood pressure.
Is Annie's Organic Real Aged Cheddar Mac & Cheese a healthy choice?
Annie's Organic Real Aged Cheddar Mac & Cheese scores 30/100, indicating a poor nutritional profile. While it offers some fiber and protein, it is classified as ultra-processed and contains trans fat, which negatively impacts its overall health assessment. It's best considered an occasional food.
How does Annie's Mac & Cheese compare to other brands?
Compared to a home-cooked mac and cheese, Annie's contains more processed ingredients and higher sodium. When looking at other boxed mac and cheese brands like Kraft Original Macaroni & Cheese, nutritional profiles can vary but often share similar challenges regarding processing and sodium content. Always check the specific nutrition facts label.
What is 'Organic Annatto Extract' in the ingredients?
Organic Annatto Extract is a natural food coloring derived from the seeds of the annatto tree. It is used in this product to give the cheese sauce its characteristic orange color. It does not contribute significant nutritional value.
What is a reasonable portion size for this product?
The serving size is listed as one package. However, due to its nutritional profile, especially the high sodium and saturated fat, considering a smaller portion and supplementing with fresh vegetables or a lean protein can be a more balanced approach for regular consumption.
Can children eat Annie's Organic Real Aged Cheddar Mac & Cheese?
Children can consume this product, but due to its high sodium content, it should be offered in moderation and as part of a varied diet. Balancing it with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is important to ensure they meet their nutritional needs without excessive sodium intake.