How to choose healthier bread by reading ingredient labels

What To Check

Bread buyers must look past front-of-pack claims and read the full ingredient list before making a purchase. Dr Eileen Canday, head of the nutrition and dietetics department at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital in Mumbai, shared expert tips on picking the right loaf. Multigrain bread simply means the product contains more than one type of grain. This label does not always mean the bread is healthy. Many multigrain products use refined flour, or maida, as their main base with only small amounts of extra seeds.

Colour And Fibre

Shoppers should never judge a loaf by its brown colour. Manufacturers sometimes add caramel colour to make white bread look darker. Buyers must look for products where whole-wheat flour or whole grains appear as the very first ingredient. A good loaf should offer at least three grams of fibre in every slice. High fibre helps digestion, keeps you full for longer, and aids blood sugar control. People should also check the label for minimal added sugar.

Sourdough Facts

Sourdough bread uses a traditional fermentation process with helpful microorganisms that break down carbohydrates. This natural process can soften the body's blood sugar response compared to regular bread. However, many commercial brands use simple yeast and vinegar instead to copy the sour taste. True sourdough should have a whole-grain base and a short ingredient list.

Context

Food labels often use clever marketing terms to make processed foods sound much healthier than they actually are. Reading the fine print on the back helps consumers find hidden sugars and refined flours. Simple kitchen choices like checking ingredient lists can lead to better long-term dietary habits.