Is Artisan Baker White Bread Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I look for the structural agents that replace wheat gluten. In this Artisan Baker White Bread, the absence of wheat, barley, or rye is immediately evident. Instead, the structure is built using a complex matrix of starches and fibers.

The primary structural ingredients are rice starch and corn starch. These provide the bulk and the soft crumb texture typically associated with white bread. To mimic the elasticity of gluten, the formulators use psyllium seed husk and guar gum. Psyllium is a powerful vegetable fiber that absorbs water and creates a gel-like consistency, holding the bread together so it doesn't crumble.

For flavor and fermentation, the bread utilizes a sourdough starter made from rice flour, along with yeast. The inclusion of soy protein and millet flour adds protein content and aids in browning. It is important to note that while the bread is gluten-free, the ingredient list explicitly states it contains soy and may contain sesame due to processing lines.

Nutritional Value

When analyzing the nutritional profile, this bread fits the standard gluten-free category but leans towards the higher end of processed carbohydrates. The base consists of rice starch and corn starch, which are rapidly digesting carbohydrates with a high glycemic index. This means the bread will spike blood sugar faster than a whole-grain wheat alternative.

To improve the taste profile, the manufacturer has added agave syrup, sugar, and honey. While these add sweetness, they also contribute to the total calorie count. However, the fat content is relatively low, primarily coming from sunflower oil. For those monitoring sugar intake, this bread should be consumed in moderation, but it remains a viable option for a gluten-free diet.