Ingredient

Croutons

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Croutons are primarily used to add texture and flavor to salads and soups. They …

What it is

Croutons are small pieces of bread that have been toasted or fried until they are crisp. They are typically made from day-old bread, cut into cubes, and then seasoned with oil, salt, and herbs before being baked or fried.

Why it's used

Croutons are primarily used to add texture and flavor to salads and soups. They provide a crunchy contrast to softer ingredients and can absorb the flavors of dressings and broths.

Health notes

Croutons are generally considered safe for consumption. They are not subject to specific FDA regulations as a food additive. While they are a source of carbohydrates and can contribute to sodium intake depending on seasoning, they are not typically associated with significant health concerns when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. JECFA and EFSA have not specifically evaluated croutons as a distinct food ingredient.

Allergen info

Croutons are typically made from wheat bread, making wheat a major allergen. They may also contain other allergens depending on added seasonings or if produced in facilities that handle other major allergens.

Products containing Croutons

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CUISINE ADVENTURES French Onion Soup Frozen Dinners & Entrees High in sodium — 35% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 70kcal 4.2Protein 3.5Fat 6.3Carbs FRESH & EASY Caesar Salad Kit Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes 55kcal 2.5Protein 2.1Fat 6.8Carbs LITTLE SALAD BAR Romaine Lettuce, Caesar Dressing, Shredded Cheese And Croutons Caesar Salad Kit Pre-Packaged Fruit & Vegetables High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 210kcal 4Protein 18Fat 8Carbs Beaver Street Fisheries Inc. 1 Oz. Chesapeake Crabcake Shellfish Unprepared/Unprocessed High in sodium — 27% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 30% DV per serving 159kcal 10.6Protein 6.2Fat 15.0Carbs Beaver Street Fisheries Inc. 4Oz. Chesapeake Crabcakes Shellfish Unprepared/Unprocessed High in sodium — 27% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 30% DV per serving 161kcal 10.7Protein 6.2Fat 15.2Carbs Beaver Street Fisheries Inc. 2.5Oz Chesapeake Crabcake Shellfish Unprepared/Unprocessed 157kcal 10Protein 6.4Fat 15.7Carbs Russ Davis Wholesale Fresh Delicatessen Chicken Caesar Salad Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes High in sodium — 52% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 40% DV per serving 188kcal 6.3Protein 16.1Fat 5.1Carbs RT Wholesale, LLC. Caesar Salad Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes High in sodium — 34% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 35% DV per serving 212kcal 7.1Protein 18.5Fat 6.0Carbs RT Wholesale, LLC. Kale Caesar Salad Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes High in sodium — 26% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 25% DV per serving High in cholesterol — 39% DV per serving 166kcal 5.4Protein 13.7Fat 7.0Carbs RT Wholesale, LLC. Caesar Salad With Asiago Peppercorn Dressing Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes High in sodium — 33% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 218kcal 4.8Protein 18.9Fat 7.3Carbs RT Wholesale, LLC. Chicken Caesar Salad With Asiago Pecorino Dressing, Chicken Caesar Pre-Packaged Fruit & Vegetables High in sodium — 37% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 30% DV per serving 211kcal 7.0Protein 17.6Fat 6.6Carbs Ahold USA, Inc. Foodhold, Chef Salad With Ranch Dressing Pickles, Olives, Peppers & Relishes High in cholesterol — 20% DV per serving 160kcal 7Protein 12Fat 7Carbs

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.