Some products earn their place in food distributions because they check multiple boxes at once: convenience, familiarity, nutrition, and broad client appeal. Pasta Select Macaroni in Tomato & Meat Sauce (7.5 oz) is one of those products.

This ready-to-eat entrée combines tender macaroni with a savory tomato and meat sauce in a shelf-stable can that’s easy to prepare and simple to serve. Whether included in pantry distributions, backpack programs, or senior feeding initiatives, it offers a satisfying meal option that requires minimal effort while delivering the familiar comfort of pasta in a hearty tomato sauce.

Produced by Faribault Foods, a family-owned company with roots dating back to 1895, this product reflects a longstanding commitment to delivering quality food products that meet the needs of communities across the country.

Why This Product Works for Hunger Relief

Pasta Select Macaroni in Tomato & Meat Sauce delivers something many distribution programs value highly: convenience without sacrificing nutrition.

The product has been reformulated to reduce sodium from 590mg to 440mg per serving, helping it better align with nutrition-focused distribution goals. With its current nutrient profile, it falls within the “Choose Often” category under HER (Healthy Eating Research) Guidelines, making it a strong option for organizations seeking products that support healthier pantry offerings.

Each 7.5 oz can provides:

• 180 calories
• 6g protein
• 5g total fat
• 2g saturated fat
• 440mg sodium
• 3g added sugars

The fully prepared meal allows clients to simply heat and serve, making it a convenient option for a variety of households. This makes it especially valuable for households with limited cooking resources, seniors seeking convenient meal options, and families looking for quick meal solutions.

The compact can format also stores efficiently and fits easily into food boxes, pantry distributions, and emergency food kits.

Where We See the Value

Pasta Select Macaroni in Tomato & Meat Sauce is a versatile product that works well across a variety of hunger relief programs, including:

• Backpack programs
• Senior feeding programs
• Standard pantry distributions
• Emergency food boxes and disaster response kits
• Shelf-stable meal programs
• Family-focused food distributions

Its fully cooked, heat-and-eat format makes it particularly useful for clients who may have limited time, equipment, or cooking experience. The familiar flavor profile appeals to both children and adults, increasing the likelihood that the product will be consumed rather than set aside.

Meal Enhancement Ideas

While Pasta Select Macaroni in Tomato & Meat Sauce is ready to enjoy on its own, clients can easily stretch the meal using common pantry and distribution items.

Add Vegetables

Stir in canned green beans, peas, mixed vegetables, or corn to add volume and nutrition while creating a more filling meal.

Boost the Protein

Mix in canned chicken, beans, or lentils to increase protein content and enhance satiety.

Pair with a Side

Serve alongside whole grain crackers, a slice of bread, or a simple side salad to create a more complete meal.

Create a Casserole-Style Dish

For households with oven access, transfer the heated pasta to a baking dish, top with a small amount of cheese, and bake until warmed through for an easy comfort-food variation.

Why these ideas work for your clients:
They utilize ingredients commonly distributed through food pantries, require minimal preparation, and help households stretch available food resources while creating satisfying meals.

Product Highlights

• 7.5 oz shelf-stable can
• Ready-to-eat meal with simple heating instructions
• Reformulated with less sodium (440mg vs. 590mg previously)
• Falls within HER “Choose Often” guidelines
• 180 calories and 6g protein per serving
• Only 2g saturated fat and 3g added sugars per serving
• Ideal for backpack and senior feeding programs
• Inspected and passed by the Department of Agriculture
• Made by Faribault Foods, serving communities since 1895