FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentgrainMRS BAIRD'S· 1 SLICE

MRS BAIRD'S SPLIT TOP BREAD

MRS BAIRD'S SPLIT TOP BREAD scores 47 out of 100, a 'Decent' rating. Its NOVA class 4 ultra-processed status and 500mg of sodium per 100g are the primary factors limiting its score, despite some micronutrient contributions.

  • MRS BAIRD'S SPLIT TOP BREAD has a FoodScore of 47/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category.
  • It provides 15% DV for iron and 26% DV for folate per 100g, contributing to micronutrient intake.
  • A significant concern is its NOVA class 4 rating, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
  • With 500mg of sodium per 100g, this product contains more sodium than a generic whole-grain bread.
  • Consider MRS BAIRD'S SPLIT TOP BREAD as an occasional component of a balanced diet, paired with nutrient-dense foods.
  • Scores +0 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
7.69g
15% of Daily Value
Added sugar
3.8g
8% of Daily Value
Sodium
500mg
22% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (7.7g)+3
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron, Folate, Riboflavin)+8
What holds it back
Added sugar (3.8g)-2
Sodium (500mg)-2
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 47

MRS BAIRD'S SPLIT TOP BREAD receives a FoodScore of 47 out of 100, primarily due to its classification as a NOVA class 4, ultra-processed food. This designation incurs a significant 10-point penalty. The product also faces penalties for its added sugar content (3.8g per 100g, resulting in a -2 penalty) and its sodium level (500mg per 100g, also a -2 penalty). While MRS BAIRD'S does not make explicit marketing claims like 'high-fiber' or 'low-sodium,' its nutritional profile shows areas for improvement. On the positive side, it gains points for its protein content (7.7g per 100g, +3 bonus) and contributions from key micronutrients such as calcium, iron, folate, and riboflavin (+8 bonus). The presence of soybean oil and various dough conditioners like monoglycerides and DATEM are common in ultra-processed breads. Compared to a generic whole-grain equivalent, this product lacks fiber (0g vs. typically 4-6g in whole grain bread) and has a higher sodium content.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in mrs baird's split top bread actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Fortified Micronutrients

MRS BAIRD'S SPLIT TOP BREAD is made with enriched wheat flour, which means it provides fortified micronutrients. Specifically, it contributes 15% of the Daily Value for iron and 26% of the Daily Value for folate per 100g. These nutrients are essential for various bodily functions, including red blood cell formation and DNA synthesis. For individuals who may not consistently consume whole grains or other rich sources of these vitamins and minerals, this bread can help bridge some nutritional gaps as part of a varied diet.

Provides Energy for Daily Activities

With 268.85 calories per 100g, MRS BAIRD'S SPLIT TOP BREAD offers a source of readily available energy. Carbohydrates are the body's preferred fuel source, and consuming this bread can help meet daily energy requirements, especially for active individuals. While it lacks fiber, the carbohydrates present can contribute to sustained energy when paired with other foods that provide protein and healthy fats, helping to prevent energy crashes throughout the day.

Contains Some Protein

This bread provides 7.69g of protein per 100g, which can contribute to your daily protein intake. Protein is crucial for muscle repair and growth, enzyme production, and overall bodily function. While not a primary protein source, incorporating a slice or two into a meal, especially when paired with other protein-rich foods like eggs, lean meats, or legumes, can help create a more balanced and satisfying meal, supporting satiety.

How to eat it

MRS BAIRD'S SPLIT TOP BREAD is typically consumed as a base for sandwiches, toast, or as an accompaniment to meals. A common portion is one to two slices. Due to its lack of fiber and higher sodium, balancing it with other nutrient-dense foods is key.

Pair with fiber-rich toppings like avocado, vegetables, or a thin spread of nut butter to enhance satiety and nutrient intake.
Use MRS BAIRD'S SPLIT TOP BREAD for open-faced sandwiches to manage portion sizes and increase the ratio of fillings to bread.
Consider using it for occasional meals, opting for whole-grain breads as a more frequent choice to increase fiber intake.
Be mindful of high-sodium fillings or spreads, as this bread already contributes 500mg of sodium per 100g.
Things to keep in mind

Individuals with wheat or soy allergies should note that MRS BAIRD'S SPLIT TOP BREAD contains both wheat and soy ingredients, specifically enriched wheat flour and soy lecithin. The presence of calcium propionate and sorbic acid as preservatives is common in packaged breads and generally recognized as safe, but some individuals may prefer products without these additives. The sodium content of 500mg per 100g is notable, and those monitoring their sodium intake, such as individuals with hypertension, should account for this when planning meals. This product is also classified as ultra-processed (NOVA 4), which suggests a formulation with multiple industrial ingredients and a higher degree of processing.

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Reader questions
Is MRS BAIRD'S SPLIT TOP BREAD healthy?
MRS BAIRD'S SPLIT TOP BREAD has a FoodScore of 47/100, indicating it is a 'Decent' choice. While it provides some iron and folate, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its sodium content are factors to consider. It can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation and paired with nutrient-dense foods.
How does MRS BAIRD'S compare to other sandwich breads?
Compared to a generic whole-grain sandwich bread, MRS BAIRD'S SPLIT TOP BREAD lacks the fiber content typically found in whole grains (0g vs. 4-6g per 100g). It also has a higher sodium level. For example, a brand like Pepperidge Farm 100% Whole Wheat Bread would offer significantly more fiber and often less sodium, making it a more nutritionally robust choice for daily consumption.
What is 'enriched wheat flour' in MRS BAIRD'S SPLIT TOP BREAD?
Enriched wheat flour means that certain nutrients lost during the milling process, such as iron, niacin, thiamin mononitrate (Vitamin B1), riboflavin (Vitamin B2), and folic acid, have been added back to the flour. This fortification helps prevent nutrient deficiencies, but it does not make the flour a whole grain, which would naturally contain more fiber and other beneficial compounds.
What is a reasonable portion size for MRS BAIRD'S SPLIT TOP BREAD?
A reasonable portion size for MRS BAIRD'S SPLIT TOP BREAD is typically one to two slices, depending on your individual dietary needs and overall meal composition. Given its sodium content, it's advisable to consider the sodium in other meal components to stay within daily recommendations.
Does MRS BAIRD'S SPLIT TOP BREAD contain added sugar?
Yes, MRS BAIRD'S SPLIT TOP BREAD contains 3.8g of added sugar per 100g. Sugar is listed as an ingredient, contributing to the overall carbohydrate content. While this amount is not excessively high, it's a factor to consider, especially for individuals monitoring their sugar intake.

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Data & references