All our Flour is Unbleached and Unbromated!

Unbleached and unbromated flour are two types of wheat flour that are often used in baking and cooking. They differ from their bleached and bromated counterparts in several ways. Let's do a deep dive into these terms to understand what they mean and their implications for baking and health.

Unbleached Flour:
Definition: 

Unbleached flour is made from wheat that has not undergone a bleaching process. Bleaching is a chemical treatment that some flours undergo to whiten and "mature" the flour more quickly.

Production: 

Unbleached flour is typically produced by milling wheat and then allowing it to naturally age or mature over time. This aging process can take several weeks or even months, during which the flour naturally lightens in color.

Color: 

Unbleached flour is slightly off-white or creamy in color compared to bleached flour, which is whiter.

Texture: 

Unbleached flour may have a slightly coarser texture than bleached flour due to the aging process.

Flavor: 

Unbleached flour can have a slightly different flavor profile compared to bleached flour, with some bakers claiming it has a more robust wheat flavor.

Baking Properties: 

Unbleached flour is often preferred for recipes where the natural color and flavor of wheat are important, such as bread and some pastries. It may also produce a slightly denser texture in baked goods compared to bleached flour.

Unbromated Flour:
Definition:

Unbromated flour is made from wheat that has not been treated with potassium bromate, a chemical additive that was historically used to strengthen the dough and improve the rise of bread.


Reason for Bromating: 

Potassium bromate was used to improve the baking qualities of flour, such as dough elasticity and bread volume. However, it has been associated with health concerns and is banned or restricted in many countries due to its potential carcinogenic properties.


Production: 

Unbromated flour is produced without the use of potassium bromate. Instead, other dough strengtheners and conditioners may be used to achieve similar results.


Health Considerations: 

The main reason for choosing unbromated flour is health-related. Some studies have linked potassium bromate to an increased risk of cancer, although the risk is generally considered to be low if residual bromate levels are within safety limits.

In summary, unbleached and unbromated flours are alternatives to their chemically treated counterparts that offer a more natural and potentially healthier option for baking. Unbleached flour preserves the natural color and flavor of wheat, while unbromated flour avoids the use of a potentially harmful chemical additive. These types of flours are often preferred by bakers who prioritize the quality and healthfulness of their baked goods, especially in recipes where the wheat's natural characteristics are important.