The Allure of GOODLES: What Makes it 'Gooder'?
GOODLES entered the market with a promise to elevate a classic comfort food, and it does so primarily by enhancing the nutritional profile of its noodles. The brand’s philosophy is to provide a tasty, convenient meal that is packed with more protein, fiber, and plant-based nutrients than typical alternatives.
The Noodle's Special Blend
Unlike standard white-flour pasta, GOODLES noodles are made with a proprietary blend that includes chickpea protein and a special wheat flour. This combination is the source of the high protein and fiber content. According to the company, the special wheat flour contains ten times more fiber than regular flour, with added prebiotics to support gut health. In addition, many GOODLES products contain 21 nutrients extracted from organic plants and vegetables like broccoli, spinach, kale, and maitake mushrooms, baked right into the noodles without altering the taste.
A Clean Label and Health-Conscious Approach
GOODLES boasts a Clean Label Purity Award, which involves independent third-party testing for over 400 contaminants. The brand also explicitly states that it uses real cheese and avoids artificial flavors, preservatives, and GMOs. It is also certified as a low glycemic index (GI) food, which is beneficial for managing blood sugar levels and promoting longer-lasting satiety. However, Open Food Facts has noted that some versions of the cheese sauce contain additives like disodium phosphate and xanthan gum, and classify it as a moderately processed food.
GOODLES vs. Traditional Mac and Cheese: A Nutritional Showdown
To understand why GOODLES is considered healthier, it helps to compare it directly with popular traditional brands. The following table illustrates some key nutritional differences per one-cup serving, prepared according to standard box instructions.
| Nutrient (per 1 cup prepared) | GOODLES (Cheddy Mac) | Kraft Mac & Cheese | Velveeta Shells & Cheese |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~270 | ~376 | ~310 |
| Total Fat | ~4g | ~16g | ~9g |
| Protein | ~14-15g | ~10g | ~13g |
| Fiber | ~6-7g | ~2g | ~2g |
| Sodium | ~590mg | ~669mg | ~869mg |
| Carbohydrates | ~48g | ~47g | ~44g |
As the table shows, GOODLES generally offers a more favorable macronutrient profile, providing more protein and fiber while typically having less fat and sodium per serving compared to its well-known competitors. It's also worth noting that the standard preparation for Kraft calls for more butter than GOODLES, which further increases the fat and calorie count of the traditional version.
Is GOODLES a 'Healthy Food'? Finding the Balance
Despite its improved nutritional stats, it's essential to maintain perspective. GOODLES is still a boxed, processed food. Calling it a 'healthy food' is a broad statement; a more accurate description would be a 'healthier mac and cheese' or 'health-conscious comfort food.' It offers benefits that traditional versions do not, but it is not a replacement for whole, unprocessed foods like vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins.
Putting Healthfulness in Context
- Processed Nature: As a boxed meal, it is moderately processed, containing ingredients like salt and emulsifiers in the cheese sauce. The added plant nutrients, while a positive, are extracts rather than whole vegetables.
- Sodium Levels: While lower than some competitors, the sodium content is still significant, so those on sodium-restricted diets should be mindful.
- Dietary Role: The healthiest approach is to view GOODLES as an occasional, convenient meal rather than a daily staple. To boost its healthfulness, consider these strategies:
- Mix in additional steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or spinach.
- Add a lean protein source like grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas.
- Pair it with a fresh side salad to add more vitamins and fiber.
Conclusion: GOODLES is a 'Gooder' Option, Not a Health Panacea
Ultimately, the question of whether GOODLES is healthy is answered with a qualified 'yes.' It is unequivocally a healthier choice within the mac and cheese category due to its higher protein and fiber content, low glycemic index, and commitment to avoiding artificial ingredients. For anyone who loves the nostalgic comfort of mac and cheese but is seeking a more nutritious option, GOODLES is an excellent choice. However, it should be consumed as part of a balanced, varied diet that includes plenty of whole, unprocessed foods. Its role is to be a smarter indulgence, not a substitute for a kale salad.
How to Make Your GOODLES Even 'Gooder'
- Add protein: Mix in cooked chicken, tuna, or ground turkey for a more satiating meal.
- Boost fiber: Stir in steamed broccoli florets or spinach to increase the vegetable content.
- Add healthy fats: Drizzle a small amount of extra virgin olive oil after cooking for added flavor and healthy fats.
- Control portions: Be mindful of the serving size, which is often around 1 cup prepared, to manage calorie intake effectively.
- Don't forget water: Pair with a glass of water to help with digestion and hydration, especially given the sodium content.
For more detailed product information, you can visit the Goodles FAQ page.
