Why is 100% Whole Wheat Bread classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4) and what specific additives does it contain?

The bread is labeled NOVA 4 because its formulation includes multiple industrial additives that are not typically used in home baking. The ingredient list shows calcium propionate (preservative), datem (emulsifier), monglycerides, calcium sulfate, cellulose gum, monocalcium phosphate, cornstarch, soy lecithin, citric acid, grain vinegar and potassium iodate, all of which qualify it as ultra‑processed.

How does the sugar and salt content in this product affect a diabetic or hypertensive diet?

With 4 g of added sugars per 100 g, the bread can cause a modest rise in blood glucose, so diabetics should monitor portion size. The 2.5 g of salt per 100 g contributes significantly to daily sodium intake, making it less suitable for people managing high blood pressure.

Is the wheat gluten in this bread a concern for people with gluten intolerance?

Yes, wheat gluten is a primary ingredient and is listed as an allergen; anyone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid this product.

Sara Lee • 1 libra

100% Whole Wheat Bread

Cereals And Potatoes

Product Insights

100% Whole Wheat Bread is a plant-based bakery product belonging to the Cereals and potatoes > Bread family. It carries a Nutri-Score of D and is classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), containing several food-grade additives such as calcium propionate, datem, cellulose gum, soy lecithin, citric acid and potassium iodate. Nutritionally it offers 4 g of fat, 6 g of fiber and 10 g of protein per 100 g, but its salt (2.5 g) and added sugars (4 g) are relatively high, and the saturated fat (2 g) exceeds the average for similar breads.

Nutrient Levels

Traffic light indicators

Fat

moderate

Saturated Fat

moderate

Sugars

low

Salt

high

Nutritional Values

Values per 100 g

Energy Kcal240 kcal

Added Sugars4 g

Iron2 mg

Comparative Analysis

Compared with the average white-bread category, this loaf is lower in total fat (4 g vs 5.5 g), salt (2.5 g vs 3.95 g) and sugars (4 g vs 4.79 g) but has a higher saturated-fat level (2 g vs 1.4 g).

Ingredients

whole wheat flour, water, wheat gluten, sugar, yeast, soybean oil, salt, molasses, wheat bran, calcium propionate (preservative), datem, monglycerides, calcium sulfate, cellulose gum, monocalcium phosphate, cornstarch, soy lecithin, citric acid, grain vinegar, potassium iodate,

84%

35%

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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about 100% Whole Wheat Bread.

Sara Lee

567 g