Lasagna with meat & sauce, low-fat
Category: Meals, Entrees, & Side Dishes State: Frozen Entree
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
313
Nutrient
% Daily Value*
*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
Calorie Sources
| Nutrient | Calories kcal (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrate | 167 (53.3%) |
| Protein | 84 (26.9%) |
| Fat | 62 (19.8%) |
| Total | 313 (100%) |
Serving: 1 package [309g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Water | 236 (76.4%) |
| Carbohydrate | 42 (13.5%) |
| Protein | 21 (6.8%) |
| Fat | 6.9 (2.2%) |
| Ash | 3.4 (1.1%) |
| Total | 309 (100%) |
Serving: 1 package [309g]
Benefits
-
Provides protein from the meat used in the lasagna filling. Even though it is low-fat, it still contains lean meat as a source of protein
-
Contains vegetables from the tomato sauce which provide vitamins, minerals and fiber. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C and potassium
-
The pasta provides carbohydrates for energy. Pasta is a whole grain which supplies B vitamins and fiber
-
It is low in fat which helps control calories and saturated fat intake. Low-fat versions of foods can be part of a heart-healthy diet
-
As a frozen entree, it provides convenience as a ready-to-heat meal. This can help encourage home-cooked meals instead of fast food when time is limited
Risks
-
High in sodium. A typical frozen lasagna entree contains 800-1200mg of sodium which is over 30% of the recommended daily limit
-
High in saturated fat and calories even though labeled low-fat. The cheese and meat can still contribute to higher saturated fat and calories than fresh homemade lasagna
-
High in preservatives. Frozen meals contain various preservatives to extend shelf life which some studies have linked to health issues when consumed regularly over long periods
-
Low in nutrients. The sauces and cheeses tend to dominate the ingredients resulting in fewer nutrients compared to meals prepared with fresh ingredients
-
May disrupt gut bacteria. Frequent consumption of frozen processed meals has been linked to changes in gut microbiome composition and reduced diversity of gut bacteria
Additional Information
Lasagna with meat and sauce, low-fat, frozen entree is a popular food product that offers several nutritional benefits along with a few risks. This frozen entree typically contains layers of pasta, lean ground meat (such as turkey or chicken), tomato sauce, and low-fat cheese. Let's delve into the nutritional aspects of this item.
Starting with the primary attribute, being a low-fat option, this frozen lasagna can be beneficial for individuals who are looking to reduce their overall fat intake. By opting for a low-fat version, you can potentially lower your calorie intake and decrease the risk of weight gain or obesity. Additionally, reducing fat intake can be advantageous for those with certain health conditions, such as heart disease or high cholesterol.
The secondary attribute of this frozen entree is the inclusion of lean ground meat. Lean meats, such as turkey or chicken, are excellent sources of high-quality protein. Protein is essential for various bodily functions, including muscle growth and repair, immune system support, and hormone production. By consuming this lasagna, you can increase your protein intake, which is particularly beneficial for individuals following a high-protein diet or engaging in regular physical activity.
Another nutritional benefit of this frozen lasagna is the presence of tomato sauce. Tomato-based sauces are typically rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Lycopene has been associated with a reduced risk of certain types of cancer, particularly prostate cancer. Additionally, tomato sauce contains vitamins A and C, which contribute to healthy skin, immune function, and vision.
However, it is important to consider the potential risks associated with this food product. Despite being labeled as low-fat, frozen entrees can still contain significant amounts of sodium. Excessive sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure, an increased risk of heart disease, and other health issues. Therefore, individuals with hypertension or those aiming to reduce their sodium intake should consume this product in moderation or seek low-sodium alternatives.
Furthermore, frozen entrees may sometimes lack certain nutrients found in fresh, homemade meals. While this lasagna provides protein, it may not offer the same variety of vitamins, minerals, and fiber as a well-balanced homemade meal. Therefore, it is advisable to complement frozen entrees with fresh vegetables or a side salad to ensure a more complete nutrient profile.
In conclusion, lasagna with meat and sauce, low-fat, frozen entree offers several nutritional benefits, including being a low-fat option, providing lean protein, and containing lycopene-rich tomato sauce. However, it is crucial to be mindful of the potential risks, such as high sodium content and the potential lack of certain essential nutrients. As with any processed food, moderation and complementing with fresh ingredients are key to maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet.