Enriched Wheat Flour Bleached Wheat Flour

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, such as making dough more elastic. This process is done to achieve a lighter color and texture in baked goods.

Manufacturers use bleached wheat flour in a wide variety of baked goods because it creates a finer crumb and a lighter texture. It is commonly found in cakes, cookies, muffins, and breads. The bleaching process also helps the flour absorb liquids more readily, which can be beneficial in certain recipes.

Enriched bleached wheat flour is a common ingredient in many processed foods. The FDA considers wheat flour to be Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) when used as intended. Enrichment adds back certain nutrients lost during processing, such as iron and some B vitamins. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated wheat flour and its components. Evidence regarding the health effects of refined grains like bleached flour is mixed, with some dietary guidelines recommending limiting intake of refined grains in favor of whole grains.