FoodScore
0/ 100
DecentgrainPillsbury· 1/4 cup

PILLSBURY 5 POUND SELF RISING FLOUR

Pillsbury 5 Pound Self Rising Flour scores 47/100 (Decent) on FoodScore, primarily due to its **high sodium content** and classification as a processed food.

  • This Pillsbury flour scores 47/100, placing it in the Decent category.
  • It contains 1190.32mg of sodium per 100g, a significant amount.
  • As a NOVA class 3 processed food, it is more processed than generic whole-grain flour.
  • Provides 19% DV for calcium and 18% DV for iron per 100g serving.
  • Best used in moderation as part of a balanced diet due to its sodium level.
  • Scores +0 points above the grain category average (47/100 across 2269 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
6.45g
13% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
1190.32mg
52% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (6.5g)+2
Micronutrients (Calcium, Iron, Riboflavin)+6
What holds it back
Sodium (1190.3mg)-6
Processed (NOVA 3)-5

Why it scores 47

Pillsbury 5 Pound Self Rising Flour receives a FoodScore of 47/100, categorizing it as Decent. This score is influenced by several factors. On the positive side, the product gains 2 points for its protein content of 6.5g per 100g, and an additional 6 points for micronutrients, specifically providing 19% DV for calcium and 18% DV for iron. However, these benefits are offset by significant penalties. A major deduction of 6 points is applied due to the high sodium content, which stands at 1190.32mg per 100g. This is largely attributed to ingredients like salt and baking powder components such as sodium aluminum phosphate. Furthermore, as a NOVA class 3 processed food, it incurs a 5-point penalty for being processed. When compared to a generic whole-grain flour baseline, which typically offers more fiber and a broader range of micronutrients without the added sodium, this Pillsbury product presents a less nutritionally dense option. The absence of fiber and added sugar also contributes to its overall nutritional profile.

Health benefits

What the nutrients in pillsbury 5 pound self rising flour actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.

Source of Essential Minerals

Pillsbury Self Rising Flour contributes to your intake of certain essential minerals. Per 100g, it provides 19% of the Daily Value for calcium and 18% for iron. Calcium is crucial for bone health and muscle function, while iron is vital for oxygen transport and energy metabolism. While not a primary source, incorporating this flour into recipes can help meet daily mineral requirements, especially when combined with other nutrient-rich ingredients.

Convenience in Baking

This self-rising flour offers significant convenience for home bakers. It combines flour with leavening agents like baking soda and monocalcium phosphate, and salt, eliminating the need to measure these ingredients separately. This can simplify recipes and reduce preparation time, making it easier to prepare baked goods. For individuals looking to streamline their baking process, this product provides a ready-to-use base for many recipes.

Versatile Ingredient for Home Cooking

Pillsbury Self Rising Flour is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide array of recipes, from biscuits and pancakes to quick breads and certain cakes. Its pre-mixed nature ensures consistent leavening, which can be beneficial for achieving desired textures in baked goods. This versatility allows for creative culinary applications, making it a staple for many home kitchens and a useful component for various meal preparations.

How to eat it

Pillsbury Self Rising Flour is typically used as a base for baked goods such as biscuits, pancakes, and quick breads. A common serving size is 1/4 cup, but this will vary significantly based on the recipe. It's important to consider the overall nutritional profile of the final dish, as other ingredients can greatly impact its healthfulness.

Pair with fiber-rich ingredients like whole grains or fruits when baking to enhance the nutritional value of your meal.
Be mindful of portion sizes for baked goods made with this flour, especially due to its sodium content, to help manage daily sodium intake.
Consider using this flour for occasional treats rather than as a daily staple, and balance with less processed foods.
When making pancakes or waffles, mix with milk and eggs for added protein and other nutrients, creating a more nutritionally complete breakfast.
For a lower sodium option, look for recipes that allow for reduced salt content or consider making your own self-rising flour blend with less salt.
Things to keep in mind

Consumers should be aware of the high sodium content in Pillsbury 5 Pound Self Rising Flour, which is 1190.32mg per 100g. Individuals monitoring their sodium intake, such as those with hypertension or heart conditions, should use this product sparingly. The ingredient list includes enriched bleached flour, which means the wheat flour has been processed to remove the bran and germ, then fortified with certain B vitamins and iron. While fortified, it lacks the fiber found in whole grain flours. The product contains wheat, which is a common allergen, and individuals with celiac disease or wheat sensitivities should avoid it. The baking powder includes sodium aluminum phosphate, an additive that some individuals may prefer to limit in their diet.

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Reader questions
Is Pillsbury Self Rising Flour healthy?
Pillsbury Self Rising Flour scores 47/100 on FoodScore, placing it in the 'Decent' category. While it provides some iron and calcium, its high sodium content and classification as a processed food mean it should be consumed in moderation. It is not considered a primary source of whole grains or fiber.
How does Pillsbury Self Rising Flour compare to generic whole-wheat flour?
Compared to generic whole-wheat flour, Pillsbury Self Rising Flour is significantly different. Whole-wheat flour typically offers more dietary fiber and a broader range of micronutrients, and it does not contain added sodium or leavening agents. This Pillsbury product is more processed and has a much higher sodium content (1190.32mg per 100g) than plain whole-wheat flour.
What is 'enriched bleached flour'?
'Enriched bleached flour' is wheat flour that has undergone processing to remove the bran and germ, then treated to whiten it. It is then 'enriched' by adding back certain nutrients like niacin, iron, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid. While these nutrients are added, it still lacks the fiber found in whole grain flours.
What is a typical portion size for baking with this flour?
A typical serving size for Pillsbury Self Rising Flour is listed as 1/4 cup. However, the actual amount consumed will depend on the recipe and the portion size of the final baked good. It's important to consider the overall nutritional impact of the entire dish, including other ingredients like butter, sugar, or toppings, when evaluating your intake.
Can I use this flour for all my baking needs?
Pillsbury Self Rising Flour is specifically formulated for recipes that require leavening, such as biscuits, pancakes, and some quick breads. It is not suitable for recipes that call for plain flour and separate leavening agents, or for yeast-based breads, as the leavening action is already built-in. Always check your recipe to ensure it's the correct type of flour.
How does this compare to King Arthur Self-Rising Flour?
Both Pillsbury and King Arthur offer self-rising flours, which typically contain flour, leavening, and salt. While the specific nutrient profiles might vary slightly, the primary difference often lies in the type of wheat used and the exact leavening blend. Consumers should compare the ingredient lists and sodium content of both brands to determine which best fits their dietary needs, as both are processed flours.

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