Crackers - Enriched Wheat Flour

Enriched wheat flour is refined wheat flour that has had B vitamins (thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folic acid) and iron added back after processing. Wheat is a grain that has been cultivated for thousands of years and is a staple food in many parts of the world. The refining process removes the bran and germ, leaving the starchy endosperm, which is then enriched.

Manufacturers use enriched wheat flour as a primary ingredient in baked goods like bread, crackers, cookies, and pasta. It provides structure and texture to these foods. Its widespread use is due to its availability, relatively low cost, and desirable baking properties.

Enriched wheat flour is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food. The added nutrients help to replace those lost during refining and can contribute to meeting daily requirements for these vitamins and minerals. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated flour and its enrichment components. While some people choose to avoid gluten, a protein found in wheat, for health reasons, enriched wheat flour itself is not typically associated with adverse health effects when consumed as part of a balanced diet.