Pasta with Sliced Franks in Tomato Sauce
Category: Meals, Entrees, & Side Dishes State: Canned Entree
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
226
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 | 128 (56.7%) |
| Fat | 54 (23.9%) |
| Protein | 44 (19.5%) |
| Total | 226 (100%) |
Serving: 1 serving (1 cup) [252g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Water | 197 (78.2%) |
| Carbohydrate | 32 (12.7%) |
| Protein | 11 (4.4%) |
| Fat | 6.0 (2.4%) |
| Ash | 5.9 (2.4%) |
| Total | 252 (100%) |
Serving: 1 serving (1 cup) [252g]
Benefits
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Provides carbohydrates from the pasta which can be an important source of energy
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Contains protein from the franks which is important for growth, repair and maintenance of body tissues
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The tomato sauce provides vitamin C which is an antioxidant and helps the body absorb iron
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The pasta and tomato sauce provide some vitamins and minerals like iron, folate, potassium and phosphorus
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The canned entree is convenient and portable, making it a good option for busy people or those on the go
Risks
-
High in sodium due to processed meats like sliced franks and canned sauce
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High in saturated fat and calories from franks and sauce
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Low in nutrients due to lack of fresh ingredients
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Contains preservatives and artificial flavors from canned product
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May be high in added sugars depending on sauce ingredients
Additional Information
Pasta with Sliced Franks in Tomato Sauce is a canned entree that combines pasta, sliced franks, and tomato sauce. This dish offers a convenient and quick meal option, but it is important to consider its nutritional benefits and potential risks.
Starting with the nutritional benefits, pasta is a good source of carbohydrates, which are the body's primary source of energy. Carbohydrates provide fuel for the brain and muscles, making this dish suitable for individuals with active lifestyles or those needing an energy boost. Pasta also contains some essential nutrients like B vitamins, iron, and dietary fiber. B vitamins play a crucial role in energy production, while iron is essential for oxygen transport in the body. Dietary fiber aids in digestion and helps maintain bowel regularity.
The inclusion of sliced franks, which are typically made from processed meat, provides a source of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and producing enzymes and hormones. However, it is important to note that processed meats are often high in sodium, unhealthy fats, and additives. Therefore, moderation is key when consuming sliced franks to minimize potential risks.
The tomato sauce in this dish offers several nutritional benefits. Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, which act as antioxidants and support immune function. They also contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease. Additionally, tomatoes are a good source of potassium, which is important for maintaining proper blood pressure levels and supporting heart health.
Despite the nutritional benefits, there are some potential risks associated with this canned entree. Firstly, the pasta used in this dish is often refined and may lack the fiber and nutrients found in whole grain options. Opting for whole grain pasta instead can increase the fiber content and provide additional nutrients like magnesium and selenium.
Furthermore, processed meats, such as sliced franks, have been linked to an increased risk of certain health conditions. They often contain high amounts of sodium, unhealthy saturated fats, and additives like nitrates and nitrites, which may have harmful effects on health when consumed in excess. These ingredients have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, and certain types of cancer. Therefore, it is advisable to limit the consumption of processed meats and opt for leaner protein sources like chicken, turkey, or legumes.
Lastly, canned entrees are often high in sodium to enhance flavor and act as a preservative. Excessive sodium intake can contribute to high blood pressure, heart disease, and other health issues. It is important to read the nutrition label and choose low-sodium options whenever possible or consider rinsing the sauce off the pasta and sliced franks to reduce sodium content.
In summary, Pasta with Sliced Franks in Tomato Sauce offers some nutritional benefits such as a source of carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, it is essential to be mindful of the potential risks associated with processed meats, refined pasta, and high sodium content. As with any food, moderation and balance are key to maintaining a healthy and well-rounded diet.