Cooked Pasta: Water
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What it is
Pasta is a staple food made from unleavened dough, typically from durum wheat flour mixed with water or eggs. The dough is then shaped into various forms, such as spaghetti, penne, or lasagna sheets, and usually cooked by boiling. It is a versatile food that forms the base of many dishes.
Why it's used
Pasta serves as a carbohydrate-rich base for meals, providing texture and substance. Manufacturers use it in a wide range of prepared foods, including frozen dinners, pasta salads, and side dishes, where it absorbs sauces and complements other ingredients.
Health notes
Pasta is a source of carbohydrates, providing energy. Whole wheat pasta also contains fiber and some micronutrients. The FDA considers pasta made from enriched flour to be a source of specific nutrients. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated ingredients used in pasta production, such as wheat and water, but pasta itself is not typically evaluated as a single additive. At typical consumption levels, pasta is considered a safe and nutritious part of a balanced diet.
Allergen info
Pasta made from wheat contains gluten, a protein that can cause adverse reactions in individuals with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Wheat is one of the 9 FDA major allergens. Pasta made with eggs would also contain an allergen.