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Bread Test: Cheapest Loaves Outscore Pricey Options
16 Apr
Summary
- Budget supermarket breads often outperform expensive organic options.
- Biona Organic Original Rye Bread scored lowest despite high price.
- Wholemeal is a legally protected UK term for 100% wholemeal flour.
Nutritional analysis of 60 bread loaves has revealed that budget supermarket options often provide superior health benefits compared to more expensive varieties. Despite higher price tags, some premium loaves, including organic rye, scored lower than affordable supermarket alternatives.
Iceland's The Daily Bakery malted bloomer and Ocado Wholemeal achieved top nutritional scores, indicating a balance of low salt and sugar with high protein and fibre. Conversely, Biona Organic Original Rye Bread, a loaf many would assume to be healthy, received the lowest score of 70 out of 100. It was noted for high salt content and lower protein levels.
Experts emphasize that 'wholemeal' is a legally protected term in the UK, guaranteeing the use of 100% wholemeal flour. Terms like 'brown' or 'multigrain' are not protected and can mask the use of refined flour. Consumers are advised to check fibre content and look for denser textures, as these indicate a higher proportion of wholemeal flour.
