Wheat flour is a staple ingredient in countless recipes, from breads to pastries and pasta. The white, industrially processed version is bleached and enriched, making it versatile for many culinary applications. This flour is finely milled, with the bran and germ removed, resulting in a soft and powdery texture that lends itself well to lighter, fluffier baked goods. It is also enriched with essential vitamins and minerals, adding nutritional value to your dishes.
Nutritional Breakdown per 100g:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Energy | 367 kcal |
| Protein | 8.89 g |
| Fat | 1.43 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.34 g |
| Carbohydrates | 77.32 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
| Sugar | 0.54 g |
| Calcium | 20.0 mg |
| Iron | 5.06 mg |
| Magnesium | 20.0 mg |
| Phosphorus | 85.0 mg |
| Potassium | 131.0 mg |
| Sodium | 2.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.94 mg |
| Copper | 0.165 mcg |
| Manganese | 0.628 mg |
| Selenium | 11.4 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 0.0 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.736 mg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.445 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 5.953 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.037 mg |
| Folate (B9) | 31.0 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.0 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 0.0 mcg |
| Vitamin E | 0.05 mg |
| Vitamin D2 | 0.0 mcg |
Allergen Information:
This wheat flour contains gluten, which can cause severe reactions in individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. It is also important to note that cross-contamination may occur during processing, so individuals with wheat allergies should exercise caution.
Dietary Preferences:
- Not suitable for gluten-free diets due to its wheat content.
- Suitable for vegetarians.
- Suitable for most general dietary preferences, but may not be appropriate for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies.
Advice:
While enriched wheat flour is a great source of protein, essential minerals, and vitamins, its low fiber content means it may not provide the same level of digestive benefits as whole wheat flour. Consider combining it with whole grain flours or adding fiber-rich ingredients to your recipes for a more balanced nutritional profile. When using this flour in baking, keep in mind that it has a fine, smooth texture, which will result in softer and lighter products.
Conclusion:
Wheat flour (white, bleached, and enriched) is a kitchen essential for many recipes. Though it provides a range of nutrients, particularly B vitamins and minerals, its lack of fiber and gluten content makes it unsuitable for individuals with dietary restrictions like celiac disease or those following a gluten-free diet. As part of a well-balanced diet, however, this ingredient can enhance the texture and structure of your baked goods, adding both versatility and nutritional enrichment.