I wish to have pizza every now and then, who doesn’t? And I normally go for frozen pizza. I do know it’s not precisely a well being meals, however my take is that this: so long as you don’t have it every single day, it’s not going to do you any hurt. I usually have mine with a giant bowl of salad and keep watch over my parts, by no means pizza by itself.
In the event you love pizza too, you could be questioning whether or not frozen pizza is any more healthy than takeaway or restaurant pizza. I used to imagine that recent pizzas from eating places should be higher (fewer components, possibly much less processed?) However after doing a little digging, I used to be shocked to search out out I used to be unsuitable!
Frozen pizzas are literally more healthy total than most takeaway and restaurant pizzas. On common, they have a tendency to have much less salt, much less saturated fats, and fewer energy. That doesn’t imply they’re “wholesome,” nevertheless it does imply frozen pizza isn’t mechanically the dangerous man it’s usually made out to be. The hot button is watching your portion measurement and avoiding meat-heavy choices, which may be a lot greater in saturated fats and salt.
On this article, I’ll break down the variations between frozen, restaurant, and takeaway pizzas, examine components and diet, and share recommendations on making higher pizza selections.
Frozen Pizza vs Takeaway vs Restaurant: What’s the Distinction?
In terms of pizza, there are many choices — from grocery store frozen pizzas to large takeaway chains like Domino’s and Pizza Hut, and even restaurant-style pizzas. However nutritionally, they’re not all the identical.
Frozen grocery store pizzas are normally what I am going for as a result of they’re handy, and with a little bit of digging, you will discover higher choices. Some are lighter, greater in fibre, or filled with veg. I’ll usually have half a frozen pizza with a giant salad on the facet to maintain issues balanced.
Takeaway and restaurant pizzas, alternatively, are typically heavier. In accordance with the Motion on Salt report, pizzas from well-liked UK chains usually include extra energy, extra saturated fats, and virtually double the salt in comparison with grocery store choices. Meat-based pizzas are particularly excessive, so these are greatest stored for an occasional deal with reasonably than an everyday factor.
Evaluating Components: Are Frozen Pizzas Extra Processed?
One of many largest variations between pizzas is what really goes into them. Some are made with just some easy components, whereas others have an extended checklist stuffed with components, oils, and flavour enhancers. Let’s break it down.
Chain Takeaway Pizzas (Domino’s, Pizza Hut, Papa John’s)
Pizzas from the massive takeaway chains usually have lengthy ingredient lists. The dough and sauces usually embody issues like:
- Dough improvers
- Emulsifiers
- Stabilizers
- Added sugars
- Refined vegetable oils
All of those make them extra processed and fewer preferrred should you’re making an attempt to eat a much less ultra-processed food regimen.
Frozen Grocery store Pizzas
Frozen pizzas can differ so much. Some are comparatively easy, for instance, Tesco’s Stonebaked Margherita sticks to fundamental components. Others, like Goodfella’s or The Health club Kitchen, embody extras reminiscent of added fibres, protein concentrates, and a number of kinds of oils.
There are additionally mid-range choices like Dr. Oetker’s Ristorante or ASDA’s OMV Roasted Veg & Houmous, which strike a steadiness between easy and engineered, however these nonetheless usually use refined oils and stabilisers.
Artisan Pizzerias
Impartial pizzerias, like Rudy’s Pizza within the UK, are inclined to preserve issues a lot easier and extra conventional. Their dough, for instance, is simply: flour, water, yeast and salt.
Toppings are prime quality too: San Marzano tomatoes, fior di latte mozzarella, Grana Padano, and a drizzle of additional virgin olive oil.
However “easier” doesn’t essentially imply more healthy. Artisan pizzas can nonetheless be excessive in energy, fats, and salt, particularly with plenty of cheese or meat toppings.
Extremely-Processed vs Minimally Processed
Most frozen grocery store pizzas and chain takeaway pizzas can be thought of ultra-processed due to components like emulsifiers, stabilisers, and modified starches, plus refined oils and processed meats.
Artisan pizzas, in contrast, are normally much less processed, however that doesn’t mechanically make them low in energy or salt.
Ingredient Comparability Desk
Right here’s how the components stack up throughout various kinds of pizzas:
| Model & product | Full components |
|---|---|
| Pizza Hut – Margherita, Particular person Skinny base (Restaurant) | Particular person Skinny dough: Wheat Flour, Water, Yeast: (Bakers Yeast, Rehydrating Agent; E491), Salt, Vegetable Oil, Sugar, Ascorbic Acid e300. Seasoned Tomato Sauce: Tomato Focus (Tomato Paste, Citric Acid), Sugar (White), Sugar, Herbs (Oregano, Basil, Marjoram, Thyme), Maltodextrin, Salt, Yeast Extract, Rapeseed Oil, Thickener (Guar Gum), Anti-Caking Agent (Silicon Dioxide). Mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella Cheese (Pasteurised Milk, Salt, Lactic Cultures), Potato Starch. |
| Domino’s UK – Cheese & Tomato (Takeaway/supply) | Domino’s Pizza Base (Basic): Wheat Flour (WHEAT Flour, Calcium, Iron, Niacin, Thiamin), Water, Rapeseed Oil, Cornmeal, Yeast, Sugar, Salt, Whey Powder (MILK), Flour Improvers (Ascorbic Acid (E300), L-cysteine Hydrochloride (E920), Emulsifier (E481)). Tomato Sauce: (Tomato paste, Water, Salt, Sugar, Garlic, Oregano, Black Pepper , Basil, Chilli, Peppermint, Acidity Regulatory: Citric Acid) or (Tomatoes, Salt, Sugar, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Oregano, Basil, Acidity Regulator: Citric Acid). Mozzarella Cheese (MILK). |
| Goodfella’s Stonebaked Skinny Margherita Cheese Pizza 334g (frozen) | Wheat Flour, Cheese Mix [28%] [Mozzarella Cheese (Milk), Emmental Cheese (Milk), Red Cheddar Cheese (Milk) [contains Colour: Beta-Carotene) in varying proportions], Water, Tomato Purée, Tomato Paste, Yeast, Rapeseed Oil, Chicory Root Fibre, Cornflour, Salt, Sugar, Basil, Sundried Tomato, Oregano, Garlic Powder, Black Pepper, White Wine Vinegar, Yeast Extract, Tomato Powder, Marjoram, Thyme, Cheese Powder (Milk), Flavouring, Garlic Purée, Rosemary. |
| Dr. Oetker Ristorante Pizza Vegan Margherita Pomodori 340g (frozen) | Components: WHEAT flour, tomato puree, 11% grated pizza topping based mostly on coconut oil (water, modified potato starch, vegetable oil (coconut), sea salt, color (carotenes), antioxidant (ascorbic acid)), 11% cherry tomatoes, water, vegetable oils (rapeseed, further virgin olive oil), 6.0% dried marinated tomato items (dried tomatoes, vegetable oil (sunflower), salt, garlic, herbs, acid (citric acid)), basil, yeast, salt, sugar, parsley, garlic, oregano, onions, pepper, roasted onions, paprika, lemon juice. |
| ASDA OMV! Deliciously Vegan Roasted Veg & Houmous Pizza 375g (frozen) | Wheat Flour, Tomato Purée, Marinated Grilled Peppers (13%) [Red Peppers, Yellow Peppers, Sunflower Oil, Sugar, Salt, Concentrated Lemon Juice, Garlic Powder, Chilli Powder], Water, Spinach (8%), Chickpea Purée (7%) [Chickpeas, Water, Salt, Antioxidant (Ascorbic Acid)], Purple Onions (4%), Marinated Semi-Dried Tomatoes (4%) [Semi-Dried Tomatoes, Sunflower Oil, Salt, Herbs, Garlic], Rapeseed Oil, Salt, Olive Oil, Yeast, Wheat Starch, Potato Starch, Corn Starch, Spices, Sugar, Dextrose, Garlic, Oregano, Concentrated Lemon Juice. |
| The Health club Kitchen Tandoori Hen Pizza 230g (frozen) | Tomato Purée (Tomato, Acidity Regulator: Citric Acid), Roasted Hen Breast Diced (16.5%) (Hen Breast, Dextrose, Salt, Maltodextrin, Maize Starch, Rice Flour, Concentrated Lemon Juice), Wheat Flour, Water, Mozzarella Cheese (8.7%) (Milk, Salt, Starter Cultures, Microbial Rennet, Acidity Regulator: Citric Acid), Purple Onion (6.5%), Entire Wheat Flour, Pea Protein Focus, Purple Pepper (4.3%), Yellow Pepper (4.3%), Inexperienced Pepper (4.3%), Wheat Fibre, Sunflower Oil, Salt, Elevating Agent (Diphosphates, Sodium Carbonates, Maize Starch), Modified Maize Starch, Garlic, Wheat Gluten, Paprika, Oregano, Sugar, Onion Powder, Cumin Powder, Cloves, Coriander Powder, Chilli Powder, Ginger Powder. |
In abstract: A fastidiously chosen frozen pizza (ideally a veggie-based one with out too many components) normally sits someplace between typical takeaway chain pizzas and artisan pizzerias when it comes to components.
However needless to say many frozen pizzas are nonetheless ultra-processed, so it’s value checking the labels fastidiously.
Energy, Salt & Saturated Fats: How Do They Evaluate?
In terms of diet, some pizzas are lighter, whereas others are loaded with energy, salt, and saturated fats, particularly takeaway pizzas from large chains. The desk under reveals how totally different pizzas examine so you possibly can see the place frozen choices slot in.
Key Takeaways
- Frozen pizzas are sometimes decrease in salt and saturated fats than takeaway and supply pizzas.
- Domino’s Medium Skinny & Crispy Cheese & Tomato has 1,252 kcal and 29.9g saturated fats – already above the each day restrict.
- Pizza Hut Particular person Skinny Margherita (395g) is lighter at 900 kcal and accommodates much less salt than Domino’s.
- Grocery store frozen pizzas differ so much. Choices like ASDA OMV Roasted Veg & Houmous and The Health club Kitchen Tandoori Hen are on the lighter facet.
- In accordance with the Motion on Salt report, meat-based pizzas are inclined to have the best energy, salt, and saturated fats, whether or not frozen or from a takeaway.
Are There Wholesome Frozen Pizzas Out There?
Frozen pizzas aren’t “wholesome,” however there are lighter, smarter choices if you realize what to search for. Listed below are some UK picks which might be higher selections than most:
Examples value contemplating (frozen):
- ASDA OMV! Roasted Veg & Houmous – veg-heavy, decrease sat fats, ~161 kcal/100g.
- The Health club Kitchen Tandoori Hen – greater protein, added fibre; nonetheless makes use of refined oils, ~177 kcal/100g.
- Crosta & Mollica 2 Frozen Ortolana Sourdough Pizzas – a great deal of veg; ~194 kcal/100g (two pizzas per pack).
- Iceland MyProtein Hen Curry – comparable protein profile; ~210 kcal/100g.
- Goodfella’s Vegan Stonebaked Falafel – ~194 kcal/100g; examine sat fats and oils.
- Dr. Oetker The Good Baker Vegan Stonebaked Spinach – multigrain base, seeds; ~205 kcal/100g.
For much more concepts, see my information to the lowest-calorie pizzas within the UK.
Fast Suggestions for Selecting a More healthy Frozen Pizza
| What to Look For | Why It Issues |
|---|---|
| Thinner base over deep pan | Thinner bases normally imply fewer energy and much less refined carbs, making the pizza a lighter alternative. |
| Extra greens, much less cheese | Greens add vitamins and fibre, whereas much less cheese means decrease saturated fats. You can even add your personal recent veg at house to spice up diet. |
| Skip processed meats | Pepperoni, salami, and comparable toppings elevate salt and saturated fats rapidly. Select veggie or leaner protein choices as a substitute. |
| Learn the diet label | Examine the energy, salt, and saturated fats per pizza so you can also make a wiser alternative. |
A Higher Different: Make Your Personal Pizza
One among my favorite methods to take pleasure in pizza with out all the additional salt and saturated fats is to make my very own at house – and it’s really easy. You don’t have to make the dough from scratch both; I simply purchase a ready-made wholegrain pizza dough from the grocery store or a specialist well being store.
Right here’s how I normally make mine:
- Unroll the dough and place it on a frivolously olive-oiled baking tray.
- Brush somewhat further virgin olive oil on high, then unfold over a good-quality passata.
- Add a handful of grated lower-fat cheese or mozzarella.
- High with plenty of recent greens — I normally go for mushrooms, peppers, and purple onion.
- Sprinkle with oregano (or your favorite herbs) and bake.
This fashion, you management the components, preserve parts cheap, and find yourself with a pizza that’s greater in fibre and vitamins in comparison with most frozen or takeaway choices.
FAQs About Frozen Pizza and Well being
Is frozen pizza dangerous in your coronary heart or ldl cholesterol?
Not should you eat it sometimes, however many pizzas are excessive in saturated fats and salt, which may elevate ldl cholesterol and have an effect on coronary heart well being if eaten too usually.
Is frozen pizza fattening?
It may be, particularly should you eat bigger parts or select cheese-heavy, meat-loaded choices. Sticking to a few slices with a giant facet salad may also help preserve energy in examine.
Is frozen pizza good for weight reduction?
It’s not the best meals, however you can also make it work should you decide lower-calorie, higher-fibre choices and watch your portion measurement. Including greens on the facet (or on high) could make it extra filling with out further energy.
Is frozen pizza okay for diabetics?
Most frozen pizzas use refined flour, so preserve your portion small and steadiness your meal with loads of fibre-rich greens. Additionally, examine the sauce – some may be surprisingly excessive in sugar.
Is frozen cauliflower pizza wholesome?
Not mechanically. Some are lighter, however many add starches, cheese, and refined oils, so all the time examine the diet label as a substitute of assuming it’s more healthy.
Is frozen pizza more healthy than Domino’s or restaurant pizza?
In lots of instances, sure. Frozen grocery store pizzas usually have much less salt, much less saturated fats, and fewer energy than typical takeaway pizzas — nevertheless it depends upon the model and toppings.
Does frozen pizza have sugar?
Normally, sure – nevertheless it’s usually only a small quantity within the tomato sauce. In the event you’re involved, examine the components checklist.
The Backside Line
Frozen pizza has a nasty fame, nevertheless it’s not mechanically worse than takeaway or chain-restaurant pizza. Genuine artisan pizzerias are a distinct story – they usually use easier, high-quality components, however the massive parts can nonetheless push up energy and salt. While you examine the diet, frozen choices can generally come out forward.
In actual fact, many frozen choices are decrease in salt, saturated fats, and energy in comparison with pizzas from the massive takeaway chains, particularly should you select easier, veggie-based varieties and preserve your parts in examine.
That mentioned, most frozen pizzas are nonetheless ultra-processed, so that they’re greatest loved sometimes reasonably than turning into a weekly behavior. In order for you extra management over what goes in your plate, making your personal pizza at house is the healthiest possibility, and truthfully, it might probably style even higher.