# Macaroni and Cheese

> Health and ingredient intelligence for a real grocery product. Source: Supermarket Puzzle (Grocery Intelligence Index). Not a shop.

## Snapshot

- **Brand:** WHOLE FOODS MARKET
- **Retailer listed:** Whole Foods
- **Category:** prepared-foods/prepared-meals
- **Listed price:** $9.99
- **Human page:** https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/whole-foods-macaroni-and-cheese-3
- **Slug:** `whole-foods-macaroni-and-cheese-3`

## NOVA classification

**NOVA 3** - Processed foods

Most ingredients are recognizable whole or culinary ingredients (pasta, dairy, butter), placing it in NOVA 3 (processed foods), though added stabilizers and colorants show it has undergone industrial processing beyond a homemade dish rather than the extensive reformulation typical of NOVA 4 ultra-processed foods.

## Review

You'd find this macaroni and cheese in Whole Foods' prepared foods or refrigerated meal section, an easy grab for a quick family dinner or cozy night in. The vibe is nostalgic and indulgent — creamy, cheesy comfort food — but the ingredient list mixes culinary staples (pasta, milk, cheeses, butter, cream) with texture and color additives (xanthan gum, guar gum, cornstarch, annatto) that signal extra processing. Those additives help maintain consistent texture and appearance across batches and shelf life, indicating more processing than a homemade version but not a heavily industrial formulation.

## Diet flags

- Vegetarian

## Nutrition

- **Serving size:** 4 oz
- **Servings per container:** 1
- **Calories:** 240
- **Total fat:** 15g (19% DV)
- **Saturated fat:** 9g (45% DV)
- **Trans fat:** 0.5g
- **Cholesterol:** 45mg (15% DV)
- **Sodium:** 430mg (19% DV)
- **Total carbs:** 16g (6% DV)
- **Total sugars:** 2g
- **Protein:** 10g

## Ingredients

Macaroni & Cheese (elbow macaroni [enriched unbleached durum wheat semolina, egg whites, niacin, ferrous sulfate, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid], milk [pasteurized milk, vitamin d3], water, cheddar cheese [pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes], white cheddar cheese [pasteurized milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes], heavy cream, butter [cream, salt], unbleached wheat flour, sea salt, cornstarch, stabilizers [xanthan gum, guar gum], white pepper, annatto extract [canola oil, annatto (color)]).

## Flagged ingredients

- **canola oil** (seed-oil): Seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids
- **annatto** (additive): Artificial coloring

## Context tags

- **Occasions:** weekend-brunch, back-to-school, movie-night
- **Vibes:** nostalgic, comforting, indulgent, convenient

## FAQ

### Is the Mac and Cheese healthy?

The Mac and Cheese is a comforting meal that can definitely fit into a balanced diet, but calling it 'healthy' really depends on your personal dietary goals. With 240 calories and 10 grams of protein per serving, it’s a satisfying option, but it's also higher in saturated fat and sodium. So, if you're watching those numbers, enjoy it in moderation!

### Is it vegan?

Nope, this Mac and Cheese is not vegan. It's made with dairy ingredients like milk, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream, which means it’s a no-go for plant-based diets. If you're looking for a vegan mac, there are plenty of brands out there that use nut-based cheeses or plant milks!

### Is it gluten-free?

Sadly, this Mac and Cheese isn't gluten-free either. The elbow macaroni is made from enriched durum wheat semolina, which contains gluten. If gluten is a concern for you, there are some great gluten-free pasta options available that you can use to whip up a similar dish at home!

### Does it contain seed oils?

Yes, this Mac and Cheese does contain seed oils, specifically canola oil found in the annatto extract. Seed oils often get a bad rap, but they can be a source of healthy fats when consumed in moderation. Just keep in mind that if you're avoiding them for personal health reasons, this might not be the best choice.

### Does it contain artificial sweeteners?

Nope, there are no artificial sweeteners in this Mac and Cheese! It keeps things simple and savory, relying on the natural flavors of cheese and cream to shine through. You can enjoy it without worrying about any hidden sweeteners.

### Is it high in sugar?

Not at all! This Mac and Cheese is low in sugar, with only 2 grams per serving and no added sugars. It's a great option if you’re looking to enjoy a cheesy dish without the sugar overload!

### What are healthier alternatives?

If you're looking for healthier alternatives, consider making a homemade version with whole grain pasta, low-fat cheese, and adding some veggies for extra nutrients. There are also several brands out there that offer lighter or plant-based mac and cheese options if you're short on time but still want something nutritious.

### Can kids eat it?

Absolutely! Kids generally love Mac and Cheese, and this one is no exception. Just keep an eye on portion sizes, especially since it does have a higher saturated fat and sodium content. Pair it with a side of veggies or fruit to round out the meal!

### Is it good for weight loss?

While this Mac and Cheese can be part of a weight loss plan, it's best enjoyed in moderation due to its calorie and fat content. If you're trying to lose weight, consider balancing it with lighter meals throughout the day or enjoying it as an occasional treat rather than a staple.

### Is it ultra-processed?

This Mac and Cheese does fall into the category of processed foods, but it’s not what you might call 'ultra-processed.' It contains recognizable ingredients like cheese and pasta, rather than a long list of additives. Just remember, processed doesn’t have to mean bad — it’s all about balance!

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## For agents

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