Whole Grain and Multi-Grain Bread Products, False Advertising

Summary. This document addresses the apparent shortage of quality whole grain and multi-grain products.

Quality Breads. The German Dark Wheat by Brownberry (pictured here) is one of the few examples of a quality bread that offers a generous amount of more than just one grain. Another example would be Ezekiel 4:9 Organic Sprouted Bread from Food for Life.

False Advertising. There is a raised awareness among health conscious consumers about the benefits of eating whole grain and multi-grain products. This has resulted in an increased demand for products that contain whole grains and multi-grains. Rather than providing consumers with what they want, bread manufacturers are simply advertising that their breads are 7 grain, 9 grain, 12 grain, and 15 grain products. In reality, these breads are usually a 98% wheat bread and only trace amounts (less than 2%) of the other grains are actually included. This amounts to false advertising. Many of these breads contain more sugar, chemicals, and additives than other grains.

Selecting Breads. Be sure to read the list of ingredients when buying bread and choose breads that have multiple grains listed at the beginning of the ingredients list rather than at the end.

Calories. Breads that are rich in whole grains are typically denser breads that are higher in calories. Unfortunately, this will deter some calorie conscious consumers from purchasing these more nutrient dense breads. Anyone familiar with the Weight Watchers point system will realize that the additional fiber typically found in nutritious breads will help offset some of the additional calories.

Resources. Here are additional resources for more information about whole grain breads.

Video. Below is a short video presentation of the above information.

By Greg Johnson