Plain Bagels - 6 Ct
Summary
This product is a processed food with a relatively simple ingredient list, primarily composed of enriched wheat flour, water, yeast, and salt. While it lacks harmful additives such as artificial colors or seed oils, the use of enriched flour indicates a moderate level of processing. The presence of added vitamins and minerals, while beneficial, does not fully offset the processing level, resulting in a moderate score.
At a glance
Key ingredients 12
Enriched Wheat FlourNeutral
Enriched wheat flour is a refined grain product that has been fortified with vitamins and minerals. It lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grains. The enrichment process adds back some nutrients lost during processing.
Risks
May contribute to blood sugar spikes and lacks the fiber of whole grains.
Benefits
Provides essential vitamins and minerals such as iron and B vitamins due to enrichment.
NiacinNeutral
Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is added to enriched flour to prevent deficiencies. It plays a role in energy metabolism and DNA repair. As a water-soluble vitamin, it is generally safe at typical dietary levels.
Benefits
Supports energy metabolism and helps maintain healthy skin and nerves.
Reduced IronNeutral
Reduced iron is added to enriched flour to prevent iron deficiency anemia. It is a form of elemental iron used in food fortification. While beneficial for preventing deficiencies, it is less bioavailable than heme iron from animal sources.
Risks
Excessive intake can lead to iron overload, especially in individuals with hemochromatosis.
Benefits
Helps prevent iron deficiency anemia and supports oxygen transport in the body.
Ascorbic AcidNeutral
Ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, is used as a dough conditioner in baking. It helps improve dough strength and volume. While it is an essential nutrient, its role in this product is primarily functional rather than nutritional.
Benefits
Improves dough quality and acts as an antioxidant.
Thiamine MononitrateNeutral
Thiamine mononitrate is a synthetic form of vitamin B1 added to enriched flour. It is essential for carbohydrate metabolism and nerve function. The fortification helps prevent thiamine deficiency.
Benefits
Supports energy metabolism and nerve function.
RiboflavinNeutral
Riboflavin, or vitamin B2, is added to enriched flour to support energy production. It is water-soluble and generally safe at dietary levels. The fortification helps prevent riboflavin deficiency.
Benefits
Supports energy production and helps maintain healthy skin and eyes.
AmylaseNeutral
Amylase is an enzyme used in baking to break down starches into sugars, improving dough fermentation. It is naturally occurring and commonly used in bread making. Its role is primarily functional, enhancing texture and flavor.
Benefits
Improves dough fermentation and enhances bread texture.
Folic AcidNeutral
Folic acid is a synthetic form of vitamin B9 added to enriched flour to prevent neural tube defects. It is essential for DNA synthesis and cell division. Fortification helps prevent folate deficiency in the population.
Risks
Excessive intake may mask vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms.
Benefits
Supports DNA synthesis and is crucial for fetal development during pregnancy.
WaterNeutral
Water is a fundamental ingredient in baking, providing moisture and activating yeast. It is essential for dough formation and texture. As a natural and unprocessed ingredient, it poses no health risks.
Benefits
Essential for dough formation and activates yeast for leavening.
YeastNeutral
Yeast is a microorganism used in baking to ferment sugars, producing carbon dioxide and causing dough to rise. It is a natural leavening agent and contributes to the flavor and texture of baked goods.
Benefits
Provides leavening and contributes to the flavor and texture of baked goods.
SaltNeutral
Salt is used in baking to enhance flavor and control yeast activity. It is a common culinary ingredient with no significant processing. While essential in moderation, excessive intake can lead to health issues.
Risks
Excessive sodium intake can contribute to hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and helps control yeast activity in dough.
VinegarNeutral
Vinegar is used in baking to enhance flavor and improve dough texture. It is a natural ingredient with minimal processing. Its acidic nature can also help preserve freshness.
Benefits
Enhances flavor and improves dough texture.
Processing
Processed Foods
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