Kraft Dinner Original Mac & Cheese

Kraft
Contains seed oils Bioengineered Lab tested
1 Poor

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Rummo Maxima 21 Rigatoni Pasta No 50 Rummo · 14.1 oz 95 View on Amazon · $7.99 See all Rice & Pasta, ranked

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 9
Harmful ingredients 8
Owned by Kraft Heinz
Category Rice & Pasta
Summary

Kraft Dinner Original Mac & Cheese scores 1/100. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency's glyphosate residue testing program (reported by CBC News, 2017) confirmed positive for glyphosate. The macaroni base is enriched (refined) wheat flour, and the powdered cheese sauce stacks sodium phosphate, modified food starch, maltodextrin, acetylated monoglycerides, MCT oil, milk protein concentrate, sodium alginate, and sorbic acid — a heavily engineered powdered cheese product, far from real cheese sauce.

Contaminants 1

Source: Independent third-party laboratory testing

Glyphosate
Detected
High

Detected at a high level — at or above health-based exposure limits. Regular exposure at this level is a genuine health concern. Glyphosate is classified as a probable human carcinogen by IARC.

Canadian Food Inspection Agency glyphosate residue testing program (reported by CBC News, 2017) confirmed positive for glyphosate.

Key ingredients 31

Wheat flour
Bad

Refined grain flour stripped of bran and germ.

Risks

May cause issues for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

Benefits

Provides a source of carbohydrates for energy.

See more about Wheat flour →
Corn syrup solids
Bad

Corn syrup solids are a form of sugar used as a sweetener and thickener. They contribute to added sugars in the diet, which can lead to health issues like obesity and diabetes. They are highly processed and lack nutritional value.

Risks

High intake of added sugars can lead to obesity, insulin resistance, and dental cavities.

See more about Corn syrup solids →
Palm oil
Bad

Palm oil is a saturated fat used for its stability and texture in processed foods. It is associated with deforestation and environmental concerns. It is less healthy compared to unsaturated fats like olive oil.

Risks

High intake of saturated fats can increase the risk of heart disease.

Benefits

Provides a stable fat source for cooking and food processing.

See more about Palm oil →
Modified food starch
Bad

Chemically modified starch additive.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability in food products.

See more about Modified food starch →
Maltodextrin
Bad

Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.

Risks

May cause spikes in blood sugar levels, especially in individuals with diabetes.

Benefits

Provides a quick source of energy.

See more about Maltodextrin →
Sodium triphosphate
Bad

Sodium triphosphate is used as a preservative and emulsifier in processed foods. It is a highly processed additive with potential health concerns. Excessive intake can lead to imbalances in phosphate levels.

Risks

High intake can lead to imbalances in phosphate levels and affect bone health.

See more about Sodium triphosphate →
Sodium phosphate
Bad

Sodium phosphate is used as an emulsifier and preservative in processed foods. It is a highly processed additive with potential health concerns. Excessive intake can lead to imbalances in phosphate levels.

Risks

High intake can lead to imbalances in phosphate levels and affect bone health.

See more about Sodium phosphate →
Natural flavor
Bad

Natural flavor is a catch-all term for flavoring compounds derived from natural sources. It lacks transparency and can include a wide range of substances. It is often used to enhance flavor without disclosing specific ingredients.

Risks

Lack of transparency can be concerning for individuals with allergies or sensitivities.

See more about Natural flavor →
Glyceryl monostearate
Neutral

Glyceryl monostearate is an emulsifier used to stabilize food products. It is generally recognized as safe by food safety authorities. It helps maintain texture and consistency in processed foods.

Benefits

Helps improve the texture and shelf-life of food products.

See more about Glyceryl monostearate →
Folic acid
Neutral

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

Risks

Excessive intake can mask vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms.

Benefits

Supports DNA synthesis and is crucial for fetal development.

See more about Folic acid →
Whey
Neutral

Liquid whey as a minor dairy ingredient — benign.

Risks

May cause issues for individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies.

Benefits

Supports muscle growth and repair due to its high-quality protein content.

See more about Whey →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and preserve food. It is a common ingredient in processed foods. Excessive consumption can lead to health issues like hypertension.

Risks

High sodium intake is linked to increased blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative.

See more about Salt →
Dried buttermilk
Neutral

Dried buttermilk is used for flavor and texture in processed foods. It is a dairy product that provides some protein and calcium. It is less nutritious compared to fresh dairy products.

Risks

May cause issues for individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies.

Benefits

Adds flavor and provides some protein and calcium.

See more about Dried buttermilk →
Citric acid
Neutral

Citric acid is a natural preservative and flavor enhancer. It is commonly used in processed foods to add acidity and preserve freshness. It is generally recognized as safe with no significant health concerns.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and preserves freshness in food products.

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Lactic acid
Neutral

Lactic acid is used as a preservative and flavoring agent in foods. It is naturally occurring and helps maintain acidity. It is generally recognized as safe with no significant health concerns.

Benefits

Helps maintain acidity and preserve food products.

See more about Lactic acid →
Calcium phosphate
Neutral

Calcium phosphate is used as a leavening agent and calcium source in foods. It is generally recognized as safe and provides some calcium. It is less bioavailable compared to other calcium sources.

Benefits

Provides a source of calcium and acts as a leavening agent.

See more about Calcium phosphate →
Nonfat dry milk
Neutral

Nonfat dry milk is used to add dairy flavor and protein to foods. It is a dehydrated form of milk with reduced fat content. It provides some protein and calcium but lacks the fat-soluble vitamins found in whole milk.

Risks

May cause issues for individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies.

Benefits

Provides protein and calcium with reduced fat content.

See more about Nonfat dry milk →
Guar gum
Neutral

Guar gum is a thickening agent derived from guar beans. It is used to improve texture and stability in processed foods. It is generally recognized as safe but can cause digestive issues in large amounts.

Risks

May cause digestive issues like bloating and gas when consumed in large amounts.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability in food products.

See more about Guar gum →
Annatto
Neutral

Annatto is a natural coloring agent derived from the seeds of the achiote tree. It is used to impart a yellow or orange color to foods. It is generally recognized as safe with no significant health concerns.

Benefits

Provides natural color to food products.

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Silicon dioxide
Neutral

Silicon dioxide is used as an anti-caking agent in powdered foods. It prevents clumping and ensures free-flowing properties. It is generally recognized as safe with no significant health concerns.

Benefits

Prevents clumping and ensures free-flowing properties in powdered foods.

See more about Silicon dioxide →
Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are used to aid in the processing and development of food products. They are naturally occurring proteins that catalyze biochemical reactions. They are generally recognized as safe and improve food processing efficiency.

Benefits

Improve food processing efficiency and product quality.

See more about Enzymes →
Xanthan gum
Neutral

Xanthan gum is a thickening and stabilizing agent used in processed foods. It is produced through fermentation and helps improve texture. It is generally recognized as safe but can cause digestive issues in large amounts.

Risks

May cause digestive issues like bloating and gas when consumed in large amounts.

Benefits

Improves texture and stability in food products.

See more about Xanthan gum →
Niacin
Good

Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is essential for energy metabolism and DNA repair. It is added to enriched flour to prevent deficiencies. It supports overall health by aiding in the conversion of food into energy.

Benefits

Supports energy metabolism and helps maintain healthy skin and nerves.

See more about Niacin →
Ferrous sulfate
Good

Ferrous sulfate is a form of iron used to fortify foods and prevent iron deficiency anemia. It is an essential mineral for oxygen transport in the blood. Fortification helps improve iron intake in populations at risk of deficiency.

Risks

Excessive intake can lead to gastrointestinal issues and iron overload.

Benefits

Essential for the production of hemoglobin and prevention of anemia.

See more about Ferrous sulfate →
Thiamin mononitrate
Good

Thiamin mononitrate is a form of vitamin B1, crucial for carbohydrate metabolism and nerve function. It is added to enriched products to prevent deficiencies. It plays a vital role in energy production and nerve health.

Benefits

Supports energy metabolism and proper nerve function.

See more about Thiamin mononitrate →
Riboflavin
Good

Riboflavin, or vitamin B2, is important for energy production and cellular function. It is added to enriched flour to enhance nutritional value. It aids in the breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Benefits

Supports energy production and helps maintain healthy skin and eyes.

See more about Riboflavin →
Milk protein concentrate
Good

Milk protein concentrate is a high-protein ingredient derived from milk. It provides essential amino acids and supports muscle maintenance. It is used to boost protein content in foods.

Risks

May cause issues for individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies.

Benefits

Supports muscle maintenance and provides a high-quality protein source.

See more about Milk protein concentrate →
Medium chain triglycerides
Good

Medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) are fats that are rapidly absorbed and used for energy. They are derived from coconut or palm kernel oil. MCTs are beneficial for quick energy and may support weight management.

Benefits

Provides a quick source of energy and may support weight management.

See more about Medium chain triglycerides →
Cheese culture
Good

Cheese culture is used to ferment milk and develop cheese flavor. It consists of beneficial bacteria that aid in the cheese-making process. It contributes to the development of flavor and texture in cheese products.

Benefits

Contributes to flavor and texture development in cheese products.

See more about Cheese culture →
Paprika
Good

Paprika is a spice made from ground peppers, used for flavor and color. It contains antioxidants and vitamins like vitamin A. It enhances the flavor and visual appeal of foods.

Benefits

Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, enhancing flavor and color.

See more about Paprika →
Turmeric
Good

Turmeric is a spice known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It contains curcumin, a compound with potential health benefits. It is used for flavor and color in foods.

Benefits

Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

See more about Turmeric →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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Amazon pricing & content

Amazon price for Rummo Maxima 21 Rigatoni Pasta No 50 as of . Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS” AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.

Kraft Dinner Original Mac & Cheese

Common questions

Is Kraft Dinner Original Mac & Cheese healthy?

Kraft Dinner Original Mac & Cheese scores 1/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — one of the lower scores in Scout's catalog. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency's glyphosate residue testing program (reported by CBC News, 2017) confirmed positive for glyphosate.

Does Kraft Dinner Original Mac & Cheese contain seed oils?

Yes — Scout's ingredient analysis flags seed oils in Kraft Dinner Original Mac & Cheese, and that is reflected in its score.

Has Kraft Dinner Original Mac & Cheese been lab-tested?

Yes. Kraft Dinner Original Mac & Cheese carries an independent laboratory panel from Independent third-party laboratory testing covering 1 contaminant (including Glyphosate) — the full results are on this page.

How processed is Kraft Dinner Original Mac & Cheese?

Kraft Dinner Original Mac & Cheese is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

How does Kraft Dinner Original Mac & Cheese compare to other rice & pasta products?

Kraft Dinner Original Mac & Cheese ranks #65 of 65 rice & pasta products in Scout's independent rankings. The current top score in the category is Rummo Maxima 21 Rigatoni Pasta No 50 at 95/100.

Which ingredients drive Kraft Dinner Original Mac & Cheese's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Niacin, Ferrous sulfate, Thiamin mononitrate count in its favor; Wheat flour, Corn syrup solids, Palm oil are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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