Health score
0
/ 100Verdict: unhealthy
Cheese Tortellini with Tomato Sauce earns a 45/100 score due to its high sodium content and saturated fat levels from the cheese filling. It is considered an unhealthy option for regular consumption.
Key takeaways
- High sodium content at 450mg per 100g serving
- Contains 4g of saturated fat from cheese filling
- Features heart-healthy lycopene from tomato base
- Uses refined durum wheat semolina as a base
- Environmental impact rated at 50/100 due to dairy production
Our read on this product
With 450mg of sodium per 100g serving, Cheese Tortellini with Tomato Sauce provides a significant portion of the recommended daily intake in a single small portion. The saturated fat content of 4g is primarily driven by the ricotta and parmesan cheese filling, which poses concerns for cardiovascular health. While the inclusion of tomatoes and olive oil provides positive lycopene and monounsaturated fats, these benefits are overshadowed by the refined durum wheat semolina.
Best for
This product is best suited for individuals looking for an occasional, quick meal option who do not have sodium or saturated fat restrictions.
Approach with care
Individuals with hypertension, heart conditions, or those following a low-sodium or low-saturated fat diet should avoid this product.
Ingredient breakdown
Good ingredients
Neutral ingredients
Ingredients to watch
Durum Wheat Semolina
The base flour used for the pasta dough. It provides structure but contains gluten and is a refined carbohydrate.
Cheese Filling (Ricotta, Parmesan)
A blend of cheeses used for the tortellini center. It is high in saturated fat and cholesterol, which can be concerning for heart health.
Tomatoes
The main component of the sauce, providing lycopene and vitamin C. They are a heart-healthy ingredient.
Olive Oil
Used for the sauce base, providing monounsaturated fats. It is generally considered heart-healthy in moderation.
Spices and Herbs
Various seasonings like basil and oregano used for flavor. These add nutritional value without significant calories.
Salt
Added for flavor enhancement. Excess sodium intake is linked to increased blood pressure and heart health concerns.
Nutrition facts
Values shown per 100g
Energy
260 kcal
Protein
9g
Carbs
35g
Fat
8g
Fiber
2.5g
Sugar
3g
Sodium
450mg
Saturated fat
4g
Fiber
2.5g
How it scores against your goal
Mood Effect
The simple carbohydrates may cause an energy dip following a short spike, potentially impacting mood stability.
Muscle Gain
With only 9g of protein, it lacks the amino acid density required for significant muscle repair.
Weight Loss
High calorie density and refined carbs make Cheese Tortellini with Tomato Sauce less effective for sustainable weight loss.
Flu Recovery
Tomatoes provide a modest amount of Vitamin C, but the high sodium level is counterproductive for immune recovery.
Fever Recovery
It provides easy energy but the high sodium content is not ideal for rehydration during fever.
Pcos Management
High sodium and refined carbohydrates can contribute to inflammation, which may negatively impact PCOS symptoms.
Diabetes Management
Refined durum wheat semolina may cause blood sugar fluctuations compared to whole grain alternatives.
Myth busters
This is a low-fat meal.
With 8g of fat, including 4g of saturated fat from cheese, it is not considered low-fat.
Contains heart-healthy ingredients.
Tomatoes and olive oil are included, which contribute beneficial lycopene and monounsaturated fats.
It is a high-protein meal.
9g of protein is relatively low for a main meal, which should ideally provide closer to 20g.
Frequently asked questions
Is Cheese Tortellini with Tomato Sauce considered a healthy meal?
+
Cheese Tortellini with Tomato Sauce is not considered a healthy choice due to its high sodium and saturated fat content, resulting in an unhealthy score of 45/100.
What is the main nutritional concern with Cheese Tortellini with Tomato Sauce?
+
Cheese Tortellini with Tomato Sauce presents a primary concern regarding its sodium level of 450mg and its reliance on refined carbohydrates rather than whole grains.
Which ingredient in Cheese Tortellini with Tomato Sauce provides the most nutrition?
+
Cheese Tortellini with Tomato Sauce contains tomatoes, which are the most beneficial ingredient, providing valuable lycopene and vitamin C.
Does Cheese Tortellini with Tomato Sauce fit into a weight loss diet?
+
Cheese Tortellini with Tomato Sauce is not ideal for weight loss as it is calorie-dense at 260 kcal per 100g and provides limited satiety from refined pasta.
What is a better alternative to Cheese Tortellini with Tomato Sauce?
+
Cheese Tortellini with Tomato Sauce can be replaced with whole-wheat pasta tossed in fresh tomato sauce and lean protein, which offers higher fiber and lower sodium.