365 By Wholefoods

Rated at 3 out of 5 green leaves, the 365 by Wholefoods Organic Sandwich Bread, Whole Wheat, occupies a middle ground in the search for cleaner food options. This product is a testament to the pursuit of healthier bread with a focus on organic ingredients, but it does have its downsides.

The bread boasts a base of organic whole wheat flour, complemented by organic cracked wheat and organic whole grain rolled oats, which contribute to its whole grain content. Additionally, the use of organic honey, organic wheat bran, and organic distilled white vinegar adds to the quality of the ingredients. It utilizes microbial enzymes instead of chemical ones, and the inclusion of ascorbic acid serves as a dough conditioner, ensuring the bread’s texture.

However, the presence of organic brown sugar and organic honey means that added sugars are part of the recipe, which detracts from the product’s overall healthfulness. Moreover, the use of organic expeller pressed soybean oil is a point of contention. While soybean oil is a common ingredient in many food products, its inclusion here is notable because it is considered less desirable by some health-conscious consumers.

The product is indeed organic, which is a significant advantage, as it ensures the absence of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers in the ingredients. Furthermore, the bread is non-GMO, aligning with the preferences of consumers seeking to avoid genetically modified organisms in their diet.

This bread represents a balance between health-conscious choices and practical considerations in food production. It is a step towards cleaner eating, but it does not entirely eschew ingredients that some may find less than ideal. For those seeking an organic, non-GMO bread option with whole grains, this product could serve as a suitable choice, provided they are mindful of the inclusion of added sugars and soybean oil.