Ingredient · Updated
Enriched Corn Meal
Found in 3 products
What is Enriched Corn Meal?
Enriched corn meal is a grain product made from de-germinated corn kernels that are ground into a fine powder and fortified with nutrients such as iron and B vitamins. This enrichment process aims to replace lost nutrients during the milling process.
It is commonly used in the food industry as a base for baked goods, cereals, and snacks. While corn meal provides some fiber and essential nutrients, its enriched form has been fortified to offer additional nutritional benefits. The health impact is generally considered neutral, as it mainly depends on the rest of the diet and the processing methods involved.
When you see enriched corn meal on a label, it indicates an attempt to improve the nutritional profile of the product. Consumers looking for whole grain options should look for terms like 'whole corn meal' for higher fiber content.
Commonly found in: baked goods, cereals, snack foods, breadings, batters
Benefits
- Contains added nutrients like iron and B vitamins, which can support a balanced diet.
- Serving as a base ingredient, it provides structure and bulk to food products.
Enriched grains, including corn meal, are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA and are commonly used in food products.
Research indicates that while enriched grains can help address nutrient deficiencies, they often lack the fiber content found in whole grains.
Enriched corn meal is plant-derived and considered suitable for vegans.
Scout's take
Enriched corn meal provides a basic carbohydrate source with added vitamins and minerals. It is fortified with nutrients like iron and B vitamins to compensate for losses during processing. However, it lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grains.
The case against
May contribute to high glycemic load and lacks fiber.
from the analysis of Frito Lay Cheetos XXTRA Flamin' Hot Crunchy Cheese Flavored SnacksThe case for
Provides essential vitamins and minerals such as iron and B vitamins.
from the analysis of Frito Lay Cheetos XXTRA Flamin' Hot Crunchy Cheese Flavored SnacksMore from Scout's analyses
Refined corn stripped of natural nutrients then fortified with synthetic vitamins (ferrous sulfate, niacin, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid). A processed base ingredient with a high glycemic index.
from the analysis of Cheetos CrunchyEnriched corn meal is considered bad because it is highly processed and may lack the nutritional benefits of whole grains, often containing additives and refined ingredients.
from the analysis of Funyuns Spicy Queso Onion Flavored Rings Snacks Shelf-Stable BagAll 3 products with Enriched Corn Meal
Where Enriched Corn Meal shows up
- Salty Snacks 3 products
Higher-scoring picks without Enriched Corn Meal
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Enriched Corn Meal, scoring 80 or above.
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