Thick Sliced Sourdough Bread

Nature's Own
60 Fair
$3.52 · 22 oz
View on Amazon
Verified Amazon match

Summary

This sourdough bread is heavily processed, containing multiple additives and soybean oil, which is a seed oil linked to inflammation. Despite having a relatively clean ingredient list for an ultra-processed product, the presence of additives and the use of enriched flour reduce its overall healthiness. The processing level and inclusion of soybean oil significantly impact the score, despite the bread's moderate nutritional profile.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 0
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Flowers Foods
Category Bread

Key ingredients 15

Unbleached enriched flour
Neutral

Unbleached enriched flour is a common ingredient in bread, providing structure and texture. It is enriched with vitamins and minerals like niacin and iron to replace nutrients lost during processing. However, it lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grain flours.

Risks

May contribute to blood sugar spikes due to its refined nature.

Benefits

Provides essential vitamins and minerals such as iron and B vitamins due to enrichment.

See more about Unbleached enriched flour →
Water
Neutral

Water is a fundamental ingredient in bread, necessary for hydrating the flour and activating yeast. It plays a crucial role in the dough's consistency and texture. There are no health concerns associated with water in this context.

Benefits

Essential for dough formation and yeast activation.

See more about Water →
Yeast
Neutral

Yeast is a microorganism used in bread making to ferment sugars, producing carbon dioxide that leavens the dough. It contributes to the bread's flavor and texture. Yeast is generally safe and beneficial in baking.

Benefits

Contributes to the leavening and flavor of the bread.

See more about Yeast →
Wheat gluten
Neutral

Wheat gluten is added to improve the elasticity and chewiness of bread. It enhances the dough's ability to trap air, resulting in a better rise. While beneficial for bread texture, it may cause issues for those with gluten sensitivities.

Risks

May cause adverse reactions in individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

Benefits

Improves bread texture and volume by enhancing dough elasticity.

See more about Wheat gluten →
Fermented rye flour
Neutral

Fermented rye flour adds a distinctive flavor and aids in the leavening process. Fermentation can enhance nutrient availability and digestibility. It is a traditional ingredient in sourdough bread.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and may improve nutrient absorption due to fermentation.

Soybean oil
Very Bad

Soybean oil is a seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation when consumed in excess. It is often highly processed and refined, which can reduce its nutritional quality. The use of soybean oil is discouraged due to its potential health impacts.

Risks

High omega-6 content may promote inflammation and is linked to various health concerns when consumed in large amounts.

See more about Soybean oil →
Salt
Neutral

Salt is used in bread to enhance flavor and control yeast activity. It is essential for proper dough development and taste. While necessary in small amounts, excessive salt intake can lead to health issues.

Risks

Excessive consumption may contribute to high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and regulates yeast activity in bread.

See more about Salt →
Sugar
Neutral

Sugar is added to bread to feed the yeast and enhance browning. It contributes to the flavor and color of the crust. In small amounts, it is generally not harmful, but excessive consumption can lead to health issues.

Risks

Excessive sugar intake can contribute to obesity and metabolic disorders.

Benefits

Provides food for yeast and enhances crust color and flavor.

See more about Sugar →
Fermented wheat flour
Neutral

Fermented wheat flour is used to improve flavor and texture in sourdough bread. Fermentation can increase the bioavailability of nutrients and improve digestibility. It is a traditional ingredient in sourdough bread making.

Benefits

May enhance nutrient absorption and improve flavor due to fermentation.

Vinegar
Neutral

Vinegar is used in bread to enhance flavor and act as a natural preservative. It can also improve the texture and shelf life of the bread. Vinegar is generally safe and beneficial in small amounts.

Benefits

Acts as a natural preservative and enhances flavor.

See more about Vinegar →
Cultured wheat flour
Neutral

Cultured wheat flour is used to improve the flavor and shelf life of bread. It involves fermentation, which can enhance the bread's nutritional profile. It is a natural ingredient with no significant health concerns.

Benefits

May improve flavor and shelf life through natural fermentation.

See more about Cultured wheat flour →
Monocalcium phosphate
Neutral

Monocalcium phosphate is a leavening agent used to help the dough rise. It reacts with baking soda to produce carbon dioxide, contributing to the bread's texture. It is generally recognized as safe in food applications.

Benefits

Contributes to the leavening process, improving bread texture.

See more about Monocalcium phosphate →
Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are added to improve dough handling and bread quality. They can enhance the texture and shelf life of the bread. Enzymes are naturally occurring and generally safe in food applications.

Benefits

Improve dough handling and enhance bread quality.

See more about Enzymes →
Ascorbic acid
Neutral

Ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C, is used as a dough conditioner to improve bread volume and texture. It is a natural antioxidant that can enhance the nutritional profile of the bread. Ascorbic acid is safe and beneficial in small amounts.

Benefits

Acts as an antioxidant and improves dough quality.

See more about Ascorbic acid →
Soy lecithin
Neutral

Soy lecithin is an emulsifier used to improve dough stability and texture. It helps blend ingredients and maintain moisture in the bread. While generally safe, it may cause issues for those with soy allergies.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to soy.

Benefits

Improves dough stability and texture by acting as an emulsifier.

See more about Soy lecithin →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

Get the full breakdown in the Scout app

Scan any product to see lab results, healthy alternatives, and your personalized analysis.

Download on theApp Store