FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentgrainNATURE'S HARVEST· 2 SLICES

NATURE'S HARVEST GRANOLA BREAD

NATURE'S HARVEST GRANOLA BREAD scores 49/100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. Its NOVA 4 classification as an ultra-processed food is the largest factor impacting its score.

  • This bread receives a FoodScore of 49/100, indicating a decent nutritional profile.
  • It provides a notable 9.6g of protein per 100g, contributing to satiety.
  • A key concern is the NOVA 4 classification, indicating it is an ultra-processed food.
  • Compared to plain rolled oats, this bread has significantly more added sugar and sodium.
  • Consider pairing with lean protein and healthy fats to balance a meal.
  • Scores +2 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
3.81g
14% of Daily Value
Protein
9.62g
19% of Daily Value
Added sugar
5.8g
12% of Daily Value
Sodium
403.85mg
18% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Fiber (3.8g)+4
Protein (9.6g)+5
Micronutrients (Iron, Folate, Riboflavin)+6
What holds it back
Added sugar (5.8g)-5
Sodium (403.9mg)-1
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10

Why it scores 49

NATURE'S HARVEST GRANOLA BREAD earns a FoodScore of 49 out of 100, placing it in the 'Decent' category. While it offers some beneficial nutrients, several factors contribute to its moderate score. The bread receives bonus points for its protein content of 9.6g per 100g and 3.8g of fiber, which are positive attributes for a grain product. Additionally, it provides meaningful amounts of iron (17% DV) and folate (14% DV). However, the product incurs penalties due to its 5.8g of added sugar per 100g and 403.9mg of sodium, both of which are higher than recommended levels for frequent consumption. The most significant penalty comes from its NOVA 4 classification, indicating it is an ultra-processed food, which generally suggests a less optimal nutritional profile compared to minimally processed alternatives. The presence of ingredients like enriched wheat flour and multiple forms of sugar (sugar, molasses, brown sugar, honey) further reflects its processed nature. When compared to a baseline of plain rolled oats, NATURE'S HARVEST GRANOLA BREAD contains more added sugars and sodium, making oats a more nutrient-dense choice for a whole-grain breakfast.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in nature's harvest granola bread actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Dietary Fiber

NATURE'S HARVEST GRANOLA BREAD contains 3.8g of fiber per 100g, which can contribute to your daily fiber intake. Dietary fiber is important for digestive health, helping to maintain regularity and support a healthy gut microbiome. Including fiber-rich foods in your diet can also aid in satiety, potentially helping with weight management by making you feel fuller for longer. This bread can be a component of a diet focused on increasing fiber intake, especially when combined with other high-fiber foods.

Contributes to Protein Intake

With 9.6g of protein per 100g, this NATURE'S HARVEST bread offers a notable amount of protein for a grain product. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and it plays a role in numerous bodily functions, including enzyme production and hormone regulation. Incorporating protein into meals can also help with satiety, which may reduce overall calorie intake. This bread can be a useful component in meals or snacks to help meet daily protein needs, particularly when paired with other protein sources.

Provides Essential Micronutrients

NATURE'S HARVEST GRANOLA BREAD is fortified and naturally contains some important micronutrients. It provides 17% DV for iron and 14% DV for folate per 100g. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood and energy production, while folate is vital for cell division and DNA synthesis. These nutrients are particularly important for maintaining overall health and preventing deficiencies. Including foods like this bread can help contribute to your daily intake of these essential vitamins and minerals.

How to eat it

NATURE'S HARVEST GRANOLA BREAD is typically consumed as part of breakfast or lunch, often toasted or used for sandwiches. A common serving size is two slices. Be mindful of toppings and spreads, as they can significantly impact the overall nutritional profile of your meal.

Pair with lean protein like turkey or eggs, and healthy fats such as avocado, to create a more balanced meal.
Watch portion sizes; while two slices are a serving, consider one slice with a larger portion of vegetables or fruit to reduce added sugar and sodium intake.
Use this bread as a base for open-faced sandwiches to incorporate more vegetables and control the amount of bread consumed.
Consider swapping for a less processed whole-grain bread with fewer ingredients and lower added sugar for daily consumption.
Things to keep in mind

This product is classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed. It contains several food additives, including calcium propionate and sorbic acid, which are used as preservatives. While generally recognized as safe, some individuals may prefer to limit their intake of foods with numerous additives. The ingredient list also includes soy lecithin, which is a common emulsifier. Individuals with allergies to wheat or soy should be aware that these are present in the product. The added sugar content (5.8g per 100g) and sodium content (403.85mg per 100g) are moderate, and those monitoring their intake of these nutrients, such as individuals with diabetes or high blood pressure, should consider these amounts in their overall dietary planning.

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Reader questions
Is NATURE'S HARVEST GRANOLA BREAD a healthy choice?
NATURE'S HARVEST GRANOLA BREAD provides some beneficial nutrients like protein and fiber, along with iron and folate. However, its classification as an ultra-processed food and its moderate levels of added sugar and sodium mean it's best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It's not a 'health food' in the sense of being minimally processed.
How does NATURE'S HARVEST GRANOLA BREAD compare to other breads?
Compared to a plain whole wheat bread like Pepperidge Farm 100% Whole Wheat, NATURE'S HARVEST GRANOLA BREAD has a similar protein and fiber content but generally higher added sugar and sodium due to its formulation. It also contains a longer ingredient list with more additives, reflecting its ultra-processed nature.
What is 'enriched wheat flour' and is it good for me?
Enriched wheat flour is refined wheat flour that has had certain nutrients, such as iron and B vitamins (niacin, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid), added back after processing. While it provides these micronutrients, it lacks the whole grain fiber and other beneficial compounds found in whole wheat flour.
How many slices of this bread can I eat daily?
A typical serving size is two slices. Given its moderate added sugar and sodium content, incorporating one to two servings (2-4 slices) per day can fit into a balanced diet, especially if you are mindful of other sources of these nutrients throughout your day. Focus on overall dietary balance rather than just one food.
Does NATURE'S HARVEST GRANOLA BREAD contain whole grains?
Yes, the ingredient list includes 'whole wheat flour' and 'whole grains' such as cracked wheat, oats, barley, and rye. However, enriched wheat flour is listed first, indicating it's the predominant flour. While it contains whole grains, it's not exclusively a whole grain product.

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Data & references