FRENCH BREAD

Cook's Gluten-Free Sourdough
60 Fair
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Summary

This French bread is ultra-processed, which limits its potential score despite having some beneficial ingredients like a fermented sourdough starter. The presence of xanthan gum and guar gum, both highly processed additives, contributes to its processing level and can cause digestive issues for some individuals. While it avoids major red flags like seed oils or artificial sweeteners, the use of multiple processed ingredients and additives impacts its overall healthiness.

At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 1
Harmful ingredients 2
Category Bread

Key ingredients 9

Fermented sourdough starter
Good

Fermented sourdough starter is beneficial due to its natural fermentation process, which can improve digestibility and nutrient absorption. The use of brown rice flour and sorghum flour in the starter adds nutritional diversity. Fermentation may also enhance the bioavailability of minerals.

Benefits

Contains beneficial probiotics that support gut health and improve digestion. Fermentation can increase the availability of nutrients and reduce anti-nutrients.

Brown rice flour
Neutral

Brown rice flour is a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour, providing a source of carbohydrates and fiber. It is less processed than white rice flour, retaining more nutrients. However, it lacks the protein content found in whole grains like wheat.

Benefits

Provides dietary fiber which can aid in digestion and promote satiety. It is a gluten-free option suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

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Tapioca flour
Neutral

Tapioca flour is a starch extracted from cassava root, often used as a thickening agent in gluten-free baking. It is highly processed and primarily provides carbohydrates. It lacks significant nutritional benefits beyond its energy content.

Benefits

Provides a source of carbohydrates and is useful in gluten-free baking for texture and structure.

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Potato starch
Neutral

Potato starch is a refined starch extracted from potatoes, used to improve texture and moisture retention in baked goods. It is highly processed and primarily contributes carbohydrates. It does not offer significant nutritional benefits.

Benefits

Useful for improving the texture and moisture of gluten-free baked products.

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Organic evaporated cane sugar
Neutral

Organic evaporated cane sugar is a less refined form of sugar, retaining some molasses content. It is still a source of added sugars and should be consumed in moderation. It provides sweetness without artificial additives.

Risks

Excessive consumption of added sugars can lead to health issues such as obesity and dental cavities.

Benefits

Provides a natural source of sweetness and is less processed than refined white sugar.

Salt
Neutral

Salt is used to enhance flavor and act as a preservative in baked goods. It is a necessary ingredient in moderation but can contribute to high sodium intake if overused. The product does not specify the use of unrefined salt, which would offer additional trace minerals.

Risks

Excessive sodium intake can lead to hypertension and cardiovascular issues.

Benefits

Enhances flavor and acts as a preservative in food products.

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Xanthan gum
Bad

Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide used as a thickening and stabilizing agent in processed foods. It is highly processed and can cause digestive issues in sensitive individuals. Its use is common in gluten-free products to mimic the texture of gluten.

Risks

May cause digestive discomfort such as bloating and gas in some individuals.

Benefits

Helps improve the texture and stability of gluten-free baked goods.

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Guar gum
Bad

Guar gum is a thickening agent derived from guar beans, used to improve texture and consistency in processed foods. It is highly processed and can cause digestive issues in some people. It is often used in gluten-free products to enhance texture.

Risks

May cause digestive issues such as bloating and gas when consumed in large amounts.

Benefits

Improves texture and consistency in gluten-free baking.

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Ascorbic acid
Neutral

Ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C, is used as a preservative to maintain freshness in food products. It is a synthetic form of vitamin C and does not provide the same benefits as naturally occurring vitamin C in whole foods. It helps prevent oxidation and spoilage.

Benefits

Acts as an antioxidant and preservative, helping to maintain the freshness of food products.

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Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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