Unbromated Enriched Wheat Flour

Unbromated enriched wheat flour is a common ingredient made by grinding wheat grains into a powder. "Enriched" means that certain nutrients, such as iron and B vitamins (folic acid, riboflavin, niacin, thiamine), are added back after milling. "Unbromated" indicates that it has not been treated with potassium bromate, a flour improver.

This type of flour serves as a primary structural ingredient in a wide variety of baked goods, including breads, cakes, cookies, and pastries. It provides bulk, texture, and helps form the framework of these foods. It can also act as a thickener in sauces and gravies.

Wheat flour is a staple food and not a food additive requiring FDA approval in the same way. The enrichment of flour with iron and B vitamins is a public health measure mandated by the FDA to help prevent nutrient deficiencies. Regarding the "unbromated" aspect, potassium bromate is an FDA-permitted additive in flour, though California will ban its use from 2027. JECFA has evaluated potassium bromate and stated it is not appropriate as a flour treatment agent. Unbromated flour avoids this additive. As part of a balanced diet, enriched wheat flour contributes carbohydrates for energy.