Health score
0
/ 100Verdict: unhealthy
Newgate Macaroni Cheese receives an unhealthy score of 42/100 primarily due to its high sodium content and reliance on ultra-processed additives.
Key takeaways
- Contains 480mg of sodium per 100g
- Low protein content of only 3.8g
- Uses processed vegetable oils
- Contains modified maize starch thickener
- High environmental impact for canned goods
Our read on this product
It contains 480mg of sodium per 100g, which contributes significantly to daily intake limits without offering meaningful fiber or micronutrient density. The inclusion of vegetable oils and modified maize starch marks this as an ultra-processed food that lacks whole-food satiety. While milk and cheese provide some protein, the 3.8g per serving is relatively low for a main meal. Ultimately, the high processing level and sodium-to-nutrient ratio explain the low scores.
Best for
This product is best suited for individuals seeking a shelf-stable, budget-friendly pantry emergency item or those with high calorie needs.
Approach with care
Individuals with high blood pressure, those following low-sodium diets, or people avoiding ultra-processed ingredients and additives should avoid this.
Ingredient breakdown
Neutral ingredients
Ingredients to watch
Cooked Macaroni
Composed of durum wheat semolina pasta cooked in water. It provides carbohydrates for energy but is typically refined, offering limited fiber content.
Water
Used as the primary cooking and sauce medium. It is calorie-free and essential for hydration.
Cheese
Provides the characteristic flavor and creamy texture for the sauce. While a source of protein and calcium, it is also high in saturated fats and sodium.
Milk
Used to create the base for the cheese sauce. It adds protein and calcium but contributes to the total saturated fat content of the meal.
Modified Maize Starch
A food additive used as a thickener to ensure the sauce has a consistent, velvety mouthfeel. It is generally considered safe but provides no nutritional value beyond simple carbohydrates.
Vegetable Fats/Oils
Added to improve texture and mouthfeel of the sauce. Depending on the source, these can be high in caloric density and sometimes contribute to trans fats if partially hydrogenated.
Nutrition facts
Values shown per 100g
Energy
98 kcal
Protein
3.8g
Carbs
12.5g
Fat
3.5g
Fiber
0.8g
Sugar
1.5g
Sodium
480mg
Saturated fat
2.1g
Fiber
0.8g
How it scores against your goal
Mood Effect
The lack of complex nutrients and potential for salt-induced sluggishness offer no support for sustained mood stability.
Muscle Gain
With only 3.8g of protein per 100g, this does not provide the amino acid density required for effective muscle growth.
Weight Loss
The low satiety levels and ultra-processed nature of the ingredients make this a poor choice for weight management.
Flu Recovery
It provides no immune-supporting antioxidants or micronutrients, failing to assist significantly during viral illness.
Fever Recovery
While soft and easy to digest, it lacks the essential vitamins and anti-inflammatory nutrients needed to support recovery.
Pcos Management
The high salt and processed additive content may promote inflammation, which is often discouraged for PCOS management.
Diabetes Management
Refined carbohydrates from the macaroni without significant fiber can lead to undesirable blood sugar fluctuations.
Myth busters
It is a good source of protein for a meal
With only 3.8g of protein, it does not meet the requirements for a protein-rich meal component.
The sauce is made primarily of natural cheese
The sauce relies on stabilizers, modified starch, and vegetable fats to mimic the texture of natural cheese.
The sodium content is high
It contains 480mg of sodium per 100g, which is a high amount for a single processed meal serving.
Frequently asked questions
Is Newgate Macaroni Cheese healthy to consume regularly?
+
Newgate Macaroni Cheese is not considered a healthy choice for regular consumption due to high sodium levels and the presence of ultra-processed additives.
What is the main nutritional concern regarding Newgate Macaroni Cheese?
+
Newgate Macaroni Cheese contains a concerning amount of sodium at 480mg per 100g, which can negatively impact cardiovascular health when consumed frequently.
Which key ingredient stands out in Newgate Macaroni Cheese?
+
Newgate Macaroni Cheese features modified maize starch and stabilizers, which are highly processed additives used primarily to maintain sauce texture.
Is Newgate Macaroni Cheese suitable for specialized diets?
+
Newgate Macaroni Cheese is not suitable for gluten-free, low-sodium, or clean-eating diets as it contains wheat, refined additives, and excessive salt.
What is a better alternative to Newgate Macaroni Cheese?
+
Newgate Macaroni Cheese can be replaced by preparing pasta from scratch using whole grain noodles, fresh milk, and real cheese to lower sodium.