FoodScore
0/ 100
Very goodgrainBARILLA· 2 oz

Barilla Whole Grain Spaghetti

BARILLA Whole Grain Spaghetti scores an 85/100, indicating a very good nutritional profile primarily driven by its **high fiber and protein content** from whole grain durum wheat flour.

  • FoodScore: 85/100 (Very good) for BARILLA Whole Grain Spaghetti.
  • Provides 10.7g of fiber per 100g, contributing significantly to daily needs.
  • Contains 14.29g of protein per 100g, supporting satiety and muscle health.
  • Classified as NOVA 2, indicating it is a minimally processed culinary ingredient.
  • Contains no added sugar, saturated fat, or sodium.
  • Scores +28 points above the grain category average (57/100 across 177 foods).
Fiber
10.7g
38% of Daily Value
Protein
14.29g
29% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (10.7g)+12
Protein (14.3g)+10
Micronutrients (Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus)+6
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
Bonus cap (+35)-1
What holds it back

Nothing significantly penalised here. Well done.

Why it scores 85

BARILLA Whole Grain Spaghetti achieves a FoodScore of 85 out of 100, reflecting its strong nutritional composition. The primary driver for this high score is the significant amount of dietary fiber, with 10.7g per 100g, which contributes a substantial bonus. Additionally, the product provides 14.29g of protein per 100g, further enhancing its score. Key micronutrients like iron (36% DV) and magnesium (34% DV) also add to its positive rating. The ingredient list, featuring only WHOLE GRAIN DURUM WHEAT FLOUR, classifies it as a NOVA 2 food, meaning it is a processed culinary ingredient, which receives a bonus for its minimal processing. This product contains no added sugar, saturated fat, or sodium, avoiding common penalties. Compared to a generic whole-grain spaghetti, BARILLA's offering aligns well with the nutritional benefits expected from this category, emphasizing whole grain consumption.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in barilla whole grain spaghetti actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Supports Digestive Health

BARILLA Whole Grain Spaghetti is an excellent source of dietary fiber, providing 10.7g per 100g. This high fiber content is crucial for maintaining regular bowel movements and can help prevent constipation. Adequate fiber intake also supports a healthy gut microbiome, as it serves as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria. Incorporating this whole grain pasta into your diet can contribute to overall digestive wellness.

Contributes to Satiety and Muscle Maintenance

With 14.29g of protein per 100g, BARILLA Whole Grain Spaghetti can contribute to feelings of fullness and support muscle health. Protein is essential for the repair and growth of tissues, including muscle. Choosing a protein-rich carbohydrate source like this whole grain pasta can help manage appetite and provide sustained energy, making it a valuable component of meals aimed at satiety and muscle support.

Provides Essential Micronutrients

This whole grain spaghetti is a good source of several important micronutrients. It provides 36% DV for iron and 34% DV for magnesium per 100g. Iron is vital for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production, while magnesium plays a role in over 300 enzymatic reactions, including muscle and nerve function and blood glucose control. These nutrients are naturally present due to the use of WHOLE GRAIN DURUM WHEAT FLOUR.

How to eat it

Whole grain spaghetti is a versatile staple in many US diets, commonly served as a main dish with various sauces. A typical serving size is 2 oz dry, which expands significantly when cooked. It's a convenient way to incorporate whole grains into meals.

Pair BARILLA Whole Grain Spaghetti with lean protein sources like chicken or fish and plenty of vegetables to create a balanced and nutrient-dense meal.
Control portion sizes by measuring out the dry pasta; a 2 oz serving is a good starting point for most adults.
Opt for homemade sauces with fresh ingredients over pre-made, high-sodium options to further enhance the nutritional value.
Consider using it in cold pasta salads with a vinaigrette dressing and lots of chopped vegetables for a fiber-rich lunch option.
Things to keep in mind

BARILLA Whole Grain Spaghetti is made solely from WHOLE GRAIN DURUM WHEAT FLOUR, meaning it contains wheat and gluten. Individuals with celiac disease or a wheat allergy should avoid this product. For those without these specific sensitivities, there are no notable additives or ingredients in this product that typically raise concerns. It is free from common allergens like dairy, soy, peanuts, and tree nuts, and contains no added sugar or sodium, making it a generally safe and healthy option for most consumers.

Reader questions
Is BARILLA Whole Grain Spaghetti healthy?
Yes, BARILLA Whole Grain Spaghetti is considered a healthy choice, scoring 85/100. It is rich in dietary fiber (10.7g per 100g) and protein (14.29g per 100g), and provides essential micronutrients like iron and magnesium. Its simple ingredient list, featuring only WHOLE GRAIN DURUM WHEAT FLOUR, means it is minimally processed and free from added sugars, sodium, and unhealthy fats.
How does BARILLA Whole Grain Spaghetti compare to regular white spaghetti?
BARILLA Whole Grain Spaghetti is nutritionally superior to regular white spaghetti. It offers significantly more fiber and protein because it retains the entire wheat kernel. Regular white spaghetti, made from refined flour, loses much of these beneficial nutrients during processing. Choosing the whole grain option provides greater satiety and more sustained energy.
What does 'WHOLE GRAIN DURUM WHEAT FLOUR' mean for my diet?
WHOLE GRAIN DURUM WHEAT FLOUR means that the pasta is made from the entire wheat kernel, including the bran, germ, and endosperm. This ensures you get all the fiber, vitamins, and minerals naturally present in wheat. Incorporating whole grains into your diet is recommended by dietary guidelines for better digestive health and reduced risk of chronic diseases.
What is a recommended portion size for BARILLA Whole Grain Spaghetti?
A recommended portion size for BARILLA Whole Grain Spaghetti is 2 oz (56g) dry, which yields about 1 cup cooked. This portion provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fiber, and protein for a meal. Adjusting portion sizes based on individual energy needs and activity levels is important, but this serving size is a good reference for balanced meal planning.
Does BARILLA Whole Grain Spaghetti contain any allergens?
Yes, BARILLA Whole Grain Spaghetti contains wheat, which is a common allergen and contains gluten. Individuals with celiac disease or a wheat allergy should avoid this product. It does not contain other major allergens such as dairy, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, or eggs, based on its ingredient list.
How does BARILLA Whole Grain Spaghetti compare to other whole grain pasta brands like Ronzoni Healthy Harvest?
BARILLA Whole Grain Spaghetti is comparable to other reputable whole grain pasta brands such as Ronzoni Healthy Harvest in terms of its nutritional profile. Both typically offer similar amounts of fiber and protein from whole wheat. The primary differences often come down to texture preferences and specific durum wheat varieties used, but nutritionally, they are both excellent choices for incorporating whole grains.

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