At a glance
Summary
This product is a processed food with a moderate level of processing, which limits its maximum score. It contains enriched macaroni, which is a refined grain product, and while it includes beneficial ingredients like skim milk and cheese, the presence of refined flour and added nutrients indicates a higher level of processing. The product does not contain harmful additives or seed oils, which helps maintain a reasonable score.
Key ingredients 9
NiacinGood
Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.
Risks
High doses can cause flushing and other side effects.
Benefits
Supports energy metabolism and is essential for overall health.
RiboflavinGood
Essential B vitamin — beneficial micronutrient.
Benefits
Supports energy production and cellular function, contributing to overall health.
Ferrous sulfateNeutral
Ferrous sulfate is an iron supplement added to fortify foods, helping to prevent iron deficiency anemia. It is a common additive in enriched flours. The bioavailability of iron from ferrous sulfate can vary depending on dietary factors.
Risks
Excessive intake can lead to iron overload, which may cause health issues.
Benefits
Helps prevent iron deficiency anemia by providing a source of iron in the diet.
Calcium carbonateNeutral
Calcium carbonate is used to fortify foods with calcium, supporting bone health. It is a common additive in enriched products. Absorption can be less efficient compared to other forms of calcium.
Risks
Excessive intake may lead to kidney stones or impaired absorption of other minerals.
Benefits
Provides calcium to support bone health and prevent osteoporosis.
Thiamin mononitrateNeutral
Thiamin mononitrate is a form of vitamin B1 added to enriched foods to prevent deficiencies. It is essential for energy metabolism and nerve function. Typically included in small, safe amounts in fortified foods.
Benefits
Supports energy metabolism and nerve function, preventing thiamin deficiency.
Folic acidNeutral
Folic acid is a synthetic form of folate used to fortify foods, crucial for DNA synthesis and cell division. It is particularly important during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects. Fortification helps prevent deficiencies in the general population.
Risks
Excessive intake can mask vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms.
Benefits
Essential for DNA synthesis and cell division, preventing neural tube defects during pregnancy.
Skim milkNeutral
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
Risks
May cause allergic reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies.
Benefits
Provides high-quality protein and calcium, supporting bone health and muscle maintenance.
CheeseNeutral
Cheese is a dairy product that provides protein, calcium, and fats. It can be high in saturated fat and sodium, which may be a concern for heart health if consumed in excess. The nutritional profile varies depending on the type of cheese used.
Risks
High in saturated fat and sodium, which may impact heart health if consumed excessively.
Benefits
Rich in protein and calcium, supporting bone health and providing essential nutrients.
Wheat flourBad
Refined grain flour stripped of bran and germ.
Risks
May cause allergic reactions in individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
Benefits
Provides carbohydrates for energy, though lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grain options.
Processing
Processed Foods
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