When most of us hear the word “white” associated with bread, images of processed and refined slices of doughy bread that have been stripped of their nutrients and fiber pop into our heads. Therefore, when we read nutrition labels that claim “whole-grain white bread” we are stumped by the perceived oxymoron. Whole-grain white bread products are on the rise everywhere, boasting nutritional superiority over traditional white bread foods. But, isn’t whole-grain white bread still just white bread no matter how you slice it? No.
What is whole-grain white bread?
Whole-grain white bread is made from flour that is derived from whole white wheat. White wheat is an “albino” wheat of sorts. According to the website of the Whole Grains Council - a nonprofit organization devoted to promoting the health benefits of consuming whole-grain products – it lacks genes for bran color. And, unlike whole “red” wheat, which is traditionally found in whole-grain breads, whole white wheat has a milder flavor because it is void of the harsh tasting phenolic compounds characteristic of the former. White wheat flour also has a lighter texture than red wheat – one that resembles the consistency that is associated with its refined white bread counterpart.
Is whole-grain white bread as nutritious as traditional whole-grain breads made with red wheat?
Yes. It is made using the whole grain of white wheat – the bran (fiber), germ (protein), and endosperm (vitamins and minerals).
What is the advantage to eating whole-grain white bread?
Eating whole-grain white bread provides you with all of the nutritional value offered by traditional whole-grain breads made with whole red wheat while, at the same time , offering you the milder taste and texture of refined white bread.
Have you tried whole-grain white bread? Did you like it? Share with us, we want to know!
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Thanks for this info. I have bought whole grain white in the past when they were out of the regular wheat bread thinking it was not as good, but better than the regular white at least. Good to know I’m not really sacrificing nutrition in this case!
I have tried many different types of traditional whole grain breads, but I haven’t found one that I like. They are too heavy and dense for my taste. I much prefer the lighter taste and texture of whole grain white bread, but I thought it was a gimmick. Now I know that I can eat healthful whole grain bread and enjoy it too.
Now we know! Thanks!
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Good to know – thanks for sharing this. I’ve bought this before and felt a bit guilty – my kids love it. Now I feel much better.