Breakdown of Specially Selected Spinach and Mozzarella Ravioli Ingredients
The ingredient list for packaged foods like Specially Selected spinach and mozzarella ravioli is typically divided into sections for the pasta dough and the filling.
The Pasta Dough
The pasta dough is primarily made from enriched wheat flour and water, with eggs added as a binder. Spinach powder and beta-carotene contribute to its green color.
The Ravioli Filling
The filling is a mix of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses blended with spinach. Seasonings include garlic powder, black pepper, and sage. Stabilizers such as guar gum, xanthan gum, and locust bean gum are also present.
Potential Allergens and Additives
The ravioli contains common allergens like wheat, milk, and eggs. Additives and stabilizers are used for texture and preservation, including citric acid and various gums.
Comparison of Different Ravioli Ingredients
Examining ingredient lists for similar products reveals variations in components:
| Component | Specially Selected Spinach and Mozzarella | Priano Spinach Ricotta Ravioli (from Aldi) | Homemade Spinach Mozzarella Ravioli |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pasta Dough | Wheat Flour, Water, Eggs, Spinach Powder, Beta-carotene. | Durum Wheat Semolina, Eggs, Wheat Flour, Water. | All-purpose Flour, Eggs, Water, Salt, Olive Oil. |
| Primary Filling | Ricotta, Mozzarella, Parmesan, Spinach. | Ricotta, Spinach. | Ricotta, Mozzarella, Spinach. |
| Additional Flavor | Garlic powder, black pepper, sage. | Natural Flavors. | Garlic, Black Pepper. |
| Stabilizers | Guar Gum, Xanthan Gum, Locust Bean Gum. | Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate. | None (rely on egg binding). |
| Allergens | Wheat, Milk, Eggs. | Wheat, Milk, Eggs. | Wheat, Milk, Eggs. |
Understanding the 'Specially Selected' Brand
"Specially Selected" is Aldi's premium private label brand, often featuring higher-quality ingredients or recipes.
The Importance of Labeling
Ingredient lists are regulated and ordered by weight, with the most abundant ingredients listed first. Always check the physical product packaging for the most current information.
Conclusion
Specially Selected spinach and mozzarella ravioli contains enriched flour pasta with spinach powder and beta-carotene for color, and a filling of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, spinach, and seasonings like garlic powder, black pepper, and sage. Stabilizers are included for texture. Potential allergens include wheat, milk, and eggs. The "Specially Selected" branding from Aldi indicates a premium product. Always check the product label for the most accurate and up-to-date details.
