Sourdough Bread

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Common questions

Is Sourdough Bread healthy?

Sourdough Bread scores 60/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This sourdough bread contains canola oil, a seed oil that is highly processed and can contribute to inflammation due to its omega-6 fatty acid content.

How processed is Sourdough Bread?

Sourdough Bread is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Sourdough Bread's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Sea salt counts in its favor; Canola oil is flagged as an ingredient of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Sourdough Bread

Fresh Thyme
Bioengineered
60 Fair

Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 1
Owned by Meijer
Category Bread
Summary

This sourdough bread contains canola oil, a seed oil that is highly processed and can contribute to inflammation due to its omega-6 fatty acid content. While the bread has a relatively clean ingredient list with minimal additives, the presence of canola oil and the processed nature of the product limit its health score. The use of sea salt is a positive aspect, but the overall processing level and inclusion of a seed oil prevent a higher rating.

Key ingredients 7

Sea salt
Good

Sea salt is a minimally processed source of sodium and trace minerals. It is considered a healthier alternative to refined table salt due to its mineral content. Its use in moderation can enhance flavor without significant health risks.

Risks

Excessive sodium intake can lead to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Provides essential sodium and trace minerals, enhancing flavor naturally.

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Flour
Neutral

Flour is a staple ingredient in bread, providing structure and carbohydrates. It is typically refined, which reduces its nutritional content compared to whole grain options. The inclusion of malted barley flour can enhance flavor and fermentation.

Risks

Refined flour lacks fiber and essential nutrients found in whole grains.

Benefits

Provides carbohydrates necessary for energy and supports the bread's texture and structure.

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Water
Neutral

Water is essential for the hydration of flour and activation of yeast in bread making. It is a basic, unprocessed ingredient with no nutritional content. Its role is primarily functional in the dough formation process.

Benefits

Essential for dough formation and yeast activation in bread making.

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Yeast
Neutral

Yeast is a microorganism used in bread making to ferment sugars, producing carbon dioxide and causing the dough to rise. It is a natural ingredient with no significant nutritional content. Its primary role is functional, contributing to the bread's texture and flavor.

Benefits

Facilitates fermentation, contributing to bread's texture and flavor.

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Cultured wheat flour
Neutral

Cultured wheat flour is used to enhance flavor and extend shelf life through natural fermentation. It contains citric acid, which acts as a preservative. While it is a processed ingredient, it is generally considered safe and functional.

Risks

Contains citric acid, which may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and extends shelf life through natural fermentation.

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Enzymes
Neutral

Enzymes are added to improve dough handling and bread quality. They are naturally occurring proteins that catalyze biochemical reactions. Their use is common in bread making to enhance texture and shelf life.

Benefits

Improve dough handling and enhance bread texture and shelf life.

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Canola oil
Very Bad

Canola oil is a seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation when consumed in excess. It is often highly processed, involving chemical extraction and refining. Compared to healthier fats like olive oil, it lacks beneficial monounsaturated fats.

Risks

High omega-6 content may promote inflammation when consumed in excess.

See more about Canola oil →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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