Bleached Wheat Flour Enriched

Bleached wheat flour is made from wheat grain that has been milled into flour. The bleaching process uses oxidizing agents to whiten the flour and improve its baking qualities. This process can also affect the gluten structure, making it more suitable for certain baked goods.

Manufacturers use bleached wheat flour in a wide variety of baked goods because it provides a consistent texture and volume. It is commonly found in breads, cakes, cookies, and pastries. The bleaching process can also help create a finer crumb in some baked products.

Bleached wheat flour is a common ingredient in the US food supply. The FDA considers it safe for consumption. Enrichment is often added to replace nutrients lost during processing, such as B vitamins and iron. While some concerns have been raised about the bleaching agents used, regulatory bodies have found them to be safe at typical levels of exposure. JECFA has evaluated flour treatment agents and established acceptable daily intakes for some.