This Classic Canned Pasta Line Is All-In On Protein

The protein trend has reached the canned food world. We saw this in full force a few weeks ago, when Campbell’s launched its new line of Protein Soups, thereby turning a comfort meal into something functional. Now, some might argue that we don’t NEED protein soups – but do we need any of these protein-enriched foods? For the most part, no, but we guess it’s nice to know that you at least have the option for Campbell’s soup to be a little more filling. ‘Cos honestly, when I eat it, I’m hungry again after an hour.

Videos by Sporked

Maybe another famous canned food manufacturer is thinking along the same lines, and realising its food doesn’t quite provide the sustenance people might want. We’ve got a new canned protein pasta line, people. 

Chef Boyardee Protein Canned Pasta

And it’s from…Chef Boyardee! That’s right: The veteran brand, which earlier this year got all up in Hamburger Helper’s business, has just announced its new Protein Canned Pasta line. There are five flavors to choose from, and all of them have, it must be said, an impressive amount of protein per can: All of the five options have a minimum of 25 grams, and the Beef Ravioli and Beefaroni have 26 and 27 grams, respectively. 

Speaking of those flavors, let’s break down what’s on offer here. The new lineup contains:

• Protein Chili Mac: Beef, macaroni, and savory chili spices.
• Protein Beef Ravioli: Pieces of beef-filled ravioli in a creamy tomato sauce.
• Protein Beefaroni: Pasta in a rich tomato meat sauce, with savory seasonings.
• Protein Spaghetti & Meatballs: Meatballs, spaghetti, tomato sauce. As you would expect. 
• Protein Chicken with Rice & Vegetables: Pieces of chicken combined with rice and vegetables, enveloped in a savory sauce. 

So…Does That Mean There’s More Meat In Each Can?

Not necessarily. You’d think that would be the way that Chef Boyardee does it, and indeed, maybe it is amping up the meat content in these products – but according to @candyhunting, the higher protein content will be achieved through the inclusion of wheat protein isolate and soy protein concentrate. So, basically, what’s happening with all your other food is happening here.

And the thoughts about that are…mixed. And by “mixed,” I mean, people are at the end of their tether. “We don’t have to keep doing this,” said one comment on @candyhunting’s post about this new product, with another person saying, “My god enough.” Maybe this is the final straw.