Toasted Crackers: Enriched Flour

Enriched flour is refined wheat flour that has added B vitamins (thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folic acid) and iron. The refining process removes the bran and germ, which contain most of the natural nutrients. Manufacturers add these nutrients back to improve its nutritional value.

Enriched flour is a primary ingredient in many baked goods, including bread, crackers, pasta, and pastries. It provides structure and texture to these foods. It is also used in breakfast cereals and as a thickener in sauces and gravies.

Enriched flour is considered safe for consumption by the FDA. The added nutrients help prevent deficiencies, particularly in populations with limited access to whole grains. While it is a staple in many diets, whole grains are generally recommended for their higher fiber and nutrient content. There are no specific upper intake levels set by the National Academies for enriched flour itself.