Ingredients In Chef Boyardee Spaghetti And Meatballs
When it comes to a quick and easy meal, canned pasta is a popular choice for many Americans. Chef Boyardee Spaghetti and Meatballs is one of the most popular canned pasta options on the market. But have you ever wondered what exactly goes into this classic dish?
The History of Chef Boyardee Spaghetti and Meatballs
Chef Boyardee Spaghetti and Meatballs has been a household name since it was first introduced in 1928 by Chef Hector Boiardi. Boiardi immigrated to the United States from Italy and opened a restaurant in Cleveland, Ohio. His customers loved his spaghetti and meatballs so much that he began selling it in cans, and the rest is history.
The Ingredients
So what exactly goes into Chef Boyardee Spaghetti and Meatballs? Here's a breakdown of the ingredients:
- Water
- Tomato Puree (Water, Tomato Paste)
- Enriched Pasta (Durum Wheat Semolina, Wheat Protein Isolate [Wheat Gluten, Phosphate, Lactic Acid], Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine Mononitrate [Vitamin B1], Riboflavin [Vitamin B2], Folic Acid)
- High Fructose Corn Syrup
- Contains Less Than 2% Of: Meatballs (Beef, Pork, Water, Bread Crumbs [Enriched Wheat Flour (Wheat Flour, Niacin, Reduced Iron, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid), Dextrose, Salt, Yeast], Soy Protein Concentrate, Salt, Dehydrated Onion, Dehydrated Garlic, Beef Flavor [Contains Beef Extract, Autolyzed Yeast Extract, Flavoring, Salt, Modified Corn Starch, Soy Sauce Solids (Soybeans, Wheat, Salt), Dextrose, Beef Fat, Citric Acid, Beef Stock, Maltodextrin], Spices, Caramel Color)
- Modified Corn Starch
- Sea Salt
- Enzyme Modified Cheddar Cheese (Cheddar Cheese [Pasteurized Milk, Cultures, Salt, Enzymes], Water, Sodium Phosphate, Xanthan Gum)
- Enzyme Modified Butter
- Citric Acid
- Enzyme Modified Butterfat
- Oleoresin Paprika
- Flavorings
It's important to note that Chef Boyardee Spaghetti and Meatballs contains high fructose corn syrup, which has been linked to numerous health problems, including obesity and diabetes. However, it's also worth noting that the dish is a good source of protein and contains vitamins and minerals such as iron and thiamine.
Nutrition Information
Here's the nutrition information for one serving (1 cup or 252g) of Chef Boyardee Spaghetti and Meatballs:
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 690mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 37g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 10g
It's important to keep in mind that one serving of Chef Boyardee Spaghetti and Meatballs contains a significant amount of sodium and sugar. It's best to enjoy this dish in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Conclusion
Chef Boyardee Spaghetti and Meatballs is a classic dish that has been enjoyed by Americans for generations. While it may not be the healthiest option out there, it's a quick and easy meal that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Remember to check nutrition labels and ingredients lists when purchasing canned pasta, and enjoy your meal!