Freshness Guaranteed French Bread, 14 oz
Summary
This French bread is made from enriched flour, which is a processed ingredient, and contains added sugar. While it lacks harmful additives like artificial colors or seed oils, the use of refined flour and sugar contributes to its processed nature. The ingredient list is relatively short and free from major red flags, but the processing level limits its healthiness compared to more minimally processed bread options.
At a glance
Key ingredients 12
Enriched FlourNeutral
Enriched flour is refined wheat flour with added vitamins and minerals. It lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grain flour. The enrichment process adds back some nutrients lost during refining, but it is still less nutritious than whole grain options.
Risks
May contribute to blood sugar spikes and lacks fiber, which is essential for digestive health.
Benefits
Provides essential vitamins and minerals such as iron and B vitamins due to enrichment.
Wheat FlourNeutral
Wheat flour is a staple ingredient in bread-making, providing structure and texture. It is typically refined, removing the bran and germ, which reduces its nutritional value. While it is a common ingredient, it lacks the fiber and nutrients of whole wheat flour.
Risks
May cause blood sugar spikes and lacks fiber, which is important for digestive health.
Benefits
Provides carbohydrates for energy and is a key component in bread texture.
Malted Barley FlourNeutral
Malted barley flour is used to enhance flavor and improve the fermentation process in bread. It contains enzymes that help break down starches into sugars, aiding yeast activity. While it adds flavor, it is used in small amounts and does not significantly impact nutrition.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and aids in the fermentation process, improving bread texture.
NiacinNeutral
Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is added to enriched flour to replace nutrients lost during processing. It is essential for energy metabolism and maintaining healthy skin and nerves. While beneficial, it is typically consumed in adequate amounts through a balanced diet.
Benefits
Essential for energy metabolism and supports healthy skin and nerve function.
Ferrous SulfateNeutral
Ferrous sulfate is an iron supplement added to enriched flour to prevent iron deficiency. It is important for oxygen transport in the blood. While beneficial for preventing anemia, excessive intake can cause gastrointestinal issues.
Risks
Excessive intake may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort and constipation.
Benefits
Helps prevent iron deficiency anemia by providing a source of iron.
Thiamin MononitrateNeutral
Thiamin mononitrate is a form of vitamin B1 added to enriched flour. It is crucial for carbohydrate metabolism and nerve function. While beneficial, it is typically consumed in adequate amounts through a balanced diet.
Benefits
Supports carbohydrate metabolism and nerve function.
RiboflavinNeutral
Riboflavin, or vitamin B2, is added to enriched flour to replace nutrients lost during processing. It plays a key role in energy production and cellular function. While beneficial, it is typically consumed in adequate amounts through a balanced diet.
Benefits
Essential for energy production and cellular function.
Folic AcidNeutral
Folic acid is a synthetic form of vitamin B9 added to enriched flour to prevent neural tube defects. It is important for DNA synthesis and cell division. While beneficial, excessive intake can mask vitamin B12 deficiency.
Risks
Excessive intake may mask vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms.
Benefits
Crucial for DNA synthesis and preventing neural tube defects during pregnancy.
WaterNeutral
Water is a fundamental ingredient in bread-making, hydrating the flour and activating yeast. It is essential for dough formation and texture. While it has no nutritional value, it is crucial for the baking process.
Benefits
Essential for dough formation and texture in bread-making.
YeastNeutral
Yeast is a microorganism used in bread-making to ferment sugars, producing carbon dioxide and causing the dough to rise. It contributes to the texture and flavor of bread. While it has no significant nutritional value, it is essential for leavening.
Benefits
Essential for leavening, contributing to bread texture and flavor.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used in bread-making to enhance flavor and control yeast activity. It is a common culinary ingredient but should be consumed in moderation to avoid excessive sodium intake. While it enhances flavor, it has no significant nutritional benefits.
Risks
Excessive sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure and cardiovascular issues.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity in bread-making.
SugarNeutral
Sugar is used in bread-making to feed yeast and enhance flavor. It contributes to the browning of the crust and overall taste. While it provides energy, excessive consumption can lead to health issues such as obesity and diabetes.
Risks
Excessive consumption can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and aids in yeast fermentation in bread-making.
Processing
Processed Foods
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