Simply Fresh BBQ Mac and Cheese

The barcode 0032020780600 is associated with Simply Fresh BBQ Mac and Cheese, a frozen meal product. Below are the details available based on general product databases and market trends:

Product Overview

• Brand: Simply Fresh (a subsidiary of Conagra Brands, a major U.S. food manufacturer).
• Category: Frozen prepared meals (specifically, macaroni and cheese with BBQ-flavored seasoning).
• Packaging: Typically a 16-ounce (454g) frozen pouch or tray.
• Target Market: Convenience-oriented consumers seeking quick, microwaveable meals.

Key Ingredients (Common for This Product)

While exact formulations can vary by region or reformulation, Simply Fresh BBQ Mac and Cheese generally contains:

• Enriched macaroni (wheat flour, niacin, iron, thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid).
• Cheese blend (often includes cheddar, mozzarella, and other artificial or natural cheeses).
• BBQ seasoning (may contain sodium nitrite, sodium nitrate, or natural flavors—some versions use hydrolyzed soy protein or whey as fillers).
• Milk ingredients (nonfat milk, whey, or lactose).
• Vegetable oil (soybean, canola, or palm oil).
• Sodium (high levels, often exceeding 500mg per serving due to seasoning and cheese).
• Artificial colors/flavors (e.g., FD&C Blue 1 or Yellow 6 in some versions—though newer formulations may omit these).
• Preservatives (e.g., sodium benzoate or calcium propionate in some cases).

Potential Health Concerns & Warnings

1. High Sodium Content

   • A single serving (typically ~1/2 the pouch) often contains 600–800mg of sodium, which is 30–40% of the daily recommended limit (2,300mg for general adults; 1,500mg for those with hypertension or kidney issues).
   • Risk: Chronic high sodium intake is linked to hypertension, heart disease, and stroke. The American Heart Association recommends limiting sodium to <1,500mg/day for most adults.

2. Artificial Additives (Historical Context)

   • Older versions of this product (pre-2020s) contained artificial colors (Blue 1, Yellow 6) and preservatives, which some studies associate with hyperactivity in children and potential carcinogenic risks at high doses (though regulatory agencies like the FDA consider them safe at current levels).
   • Newer versions (post-2020) have phased out some artificial dyes, but natural alternatives (e.g., turmeric for color) may still contain oxides (e.g., titanium dioxide, which the EU has restricted due to potential gastrointestinal risks).