# Spinach Feta Orzo Salad

> 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-soups-salads
- **Listed price:** $8.99
- **Human page:** https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/whole-foods-spinach-feta-orzo-salad
- **Slug:** `whole-foods-spinach-feta-orzo-salad`

## NOVA classification

**NOVA 3** - Processed foods

Mostly made from recognizable whole ingredients (spinach, olives, feta) but combined with processed components such as enriched pasta, a manufactured dressing and additives (xanthan gum, potato starch), indicating moderate industrial processing consistent with NOVA group 3.

## Review

You’d pick this up in the Whole Foods prepared foods case as an easy grab-and-go side or light lunch for a picnic or casual weekend meal. It reads Mediterranean and wholesome with spinach, feta, olives and pine nuts, but the label also shows enriched pasta, a commercial balsamic dressing and additives like xanthan gum and potato starch — clues that industrial processing has been used to standardize texture and shelf life.

## Diet flags

- Vegetarian

## Nutrition

- **Serving size:** 4 oz
- **Servings per container:** 1
- **Calories:** 240
- **Total fat:** 14g (18% DV)
- **Saturated fat:** 2.5g (13% DV)
- **Trans fat:** 0g
- **Cholesterol:** 10mg (3% DV)
- **Sodium:** 360mg (16% DV)
- **Total carbs:** 21g (8% DV)
- **Dietary fiber:** 2g (7% DV)
- **Total sugars:** 2g
- **Protein:** 7g

## Ingredients

Cooked Orzo Pasta (water, enriched orzo pasta [durum wheat semolina, niacin, ferrous sulfate (iron), thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid], canola oil and extra virgin olive oil) Balsamic Dressing (canola oil, balsamic vinegar [wine vinegar, concentrated grape must], water, olive oil, shallots, date syrup, garlic [water, garlic], salt, mustard [distilled vinegar, water, mustard seed, salt, white wine, citric acid, turmeric, spices], spice, xanthan gum) Kalamata Olives Pitted (olives, water, sea salt, acidifying agent [red wine vinegar], extra virgin olive oil) Feta Cheese Crumbles (feta cheese [pasteurized milk, salt, cheese cultures, enzymes], potato starch [to prevent caking]) Spinach Pine Nuts.

## Flagged ingredients

- **canola oil** (seed-oil): Seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids

## Context tags

- **Occasions:** weekend-brunch, meal-prep-sunday, road-trip
- **Vibes:** wholesome, convenient, practical

## FAQ

### Is the Spinach Feta Orzo Salad healthy?

The Spinach Feta Orzo Salad is a balanced option for a quick meal, packing in some protein and healthy fats from the feta and olives. While it's not a superfood powerhouse, it offers a nice mix of flavors and nutrients. Just remember, 'healthy' can mean different things depending on your dietary goals — it's all about how it fits into your overall eating pattern.

### Is the Spinach Feta Orzo Salad vegan?

Nope, this salad isn't vegan since it contains feta cheese, which is made from milk. If you’re looking for a plant-based option, you might want to check out some of Whole Foods' other salads or create your own with a vegan cheese alternative!

### Is the Spinach Feta Orzo Salad gluten-free?

Sadly, this salad isn’t gluten-free because it contains orzo pasta, which is made from durum wheat. If gluten is a no-go for you, consider swapping it for a gluten-free grain like quinoa or rice in your own homemade version!

### Does the Spinach Feta Orzo Salad contain seed oils?

Yes, this salad contains canola oil and extra virgin olive oil. While some folks avoid seed oils, canola oil is generally considered safe in moderation and is often used for its light flavor and high smoke point. Olive oil, on the other hand, is a heart-healthy choice, rich in monounsaturated fats.

### Does the Spinach Feta Orzo Salad contain artificial sweeteners?

Nope, you're in the clear on that front! The balsamic dressing gets its flavor from real ingredients like balsamic vinegar, shallots, and garlic, so you won’t find any sneaky artificial sweeteners here.

### Is the Spinach Feta Orzo Salad high in sugar?

Not at all! This salad is low in sugar, with just 2 grams per serving. It's a great option if you're looking to keep your sugar intake in check while still enjoying a tasty meal.

### What are some healthier alternatives to the Spinach Feta Orzo Salad?

If you’re looking for a lighter or more nutrient-dense option, consider a salad packed with leafy greens, colorful veggies, and a protein source like grilled chicken or chickpeas. You could also try a grain salad made with quinoa or farro for added fiber and nutrients.

### Can kids eat the Spinach Feta Orzo Salad?

Absolutely! Many kids enjoy the flavors of feta and olives, and the orzo pasta is a fun shape. Just be mindful of any allergies or dietary preferences, and you might want to serve it alongside a fruit for a well-rounded meal.

### Is the Spinach Feta Orzo Salad good for weight loss?

It can be part of a weight loss plan, especially if you’re looking for a filling yet moderate-calorie option. With 240 calories per serving, it could work well as a lunch or side dish, just be sure to keep an eye on portion sizes and pair it with other veggies or lean proteins for balance.

### Is the Spinach Feta Orzo Salad ultra-processed?

While it does contain processed ingredients like orzo and feta, it’s not what you’d typically classify as ultra-processed. The ingredient list is relatively straightforward, and there are no artificial preservatives or colors, making it a step up from many convenience foods.

## Related products

- [Smoked Mozzarella Pasta Salad](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/whole-foods-smoked-mozzarella-pasta-salad) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/whole-foods-smoked-mozzarella-pasta-salad
- [Brussels & Kale Slaw](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/whole-foods-brussels-kale-slaw) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/whole-foods-brussels-kale-slaw
- [Broccoli Crunch with Bacon](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/whole-foods-broccoli-crunch-with-bacon) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/whole-foods-broccoli-crunch-with-bacon
- [Broccoli Crunch with Bacon](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/whole-foods-broccoli-crunch-with-bacon-2) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/whole-foods-broccoli-crunch-with-bacon-2
- [Chesapeake Bay Shrimp Salad](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/whole-foods-chesapeake-bay-shrimp-salad) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/whole-foods-chesapeake-bay-shrimp-salad
- [Smoked Mozzarella Pasta Salad](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/whole-foods-smoked-mozzarella-pasta-salad-2) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/whole-foods-smoked-mozzarella-pasta-salad-2
- [Classic Coleslaw](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/whole-foods-classic-coleslaw) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/whole-foods-classic-coleslaw
- [Sesame Cucumber Noodles](https://supermarketpuzzle.com/product/whole-foods-sesame-cucumber-noodles) (NOVA 4) | markdown: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/__a2/md?path=/product/whole-foods-sesame-cucumber-noodles

## For agents

Prefer this markdown sheet over scraping the HTML page. Full API access and search: https://supermarketpuzzle.com/skill.md