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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers use enriched wheat flour as a primary ingredient in baked goods due to …
What it is
Enriched wheat flour is a refined grain product made from wheat that has had nutrients added back after processing. The milling process removes the bran and germ, which contain fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Enrichment adds back iron and certain B vitamins (thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folic acid) to levels similar to or higher than those in whole wheat flour.
Why it's used
Manufacturers use enriched wheat flour as a primary ingredient in baked goods due to its gluten content, which provides structure and elasticity. It is a staple in cookies, cakes, bread, pasta, and crackers, contributing to texture and volume.
Health notes
Enriched wheat flour is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. The added nutrients, particularly folic acid, are important for public health. Some studies suggest diets high in refined grains may be linked to increased risk of certain chronic diseases, while others indicate no significant association when part of a balanced diet. JECFA has evaluated wheat flour.
Allergen info
Wheat is one of the 9 major allergens identified by the FDA. Enriched wheat flour contains gluten, a protein found in wheat that can cause adverse reactions in individuals with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity.
Note:
This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice.
Check the package label; formulations change.