Tag: Unenriched pasta

In the United States, federal regulations require that most refined grain products, including pasta, are enriched to replace nutrients lost during processing. However, not all pasta is enriched or fortified; many traditional and ancient grain varieties retain their natural nutritional profile. This guide will help you understand what pasta is not enriched or fortified and how to identify it on store shelves.

Most conventionally produced pasta sold in the United States is enriched with synthetic vitamins and minerals to replenish nutrients lost during processing. To know for sure if your pasta is not enriched, you must become a savvy food detective, starting with a close inspection of the product's packaging.

Since 1998, folic acid has been added to most enriched grain products in the US, including standard pasta, to prevent neural tube defects in infants. For those seeking an alternative, finding what kind of pasta does not have folic acid requires understanding the difference between enriched and unenriched products.