Cornmeal, yellow, bolted, with wheat flour added
Category: Cereal Grains & Pasta Characteristics: Self Rising, Enriched
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
593
Nutrient
% Daily Value*
*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
Calorie Sources
| Nutrient | Calories kcal (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrate | 499 (84.1%) |
| Protein | 57 (9.6%) |
| Fat | 44 (7.4%) |
| Total | 593 (100%) |
Serving: 1 cup [170g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrate | 125 (73.4%) |
| Water | 18 (10.3%) |
| Protein | 14 (8.4%) |
| Ash | 8.5 (5.0%) |
| Fat | 4.8 (2.8%) |
| Total | 170 (100%) |
Serving: 1 cup [170g]
Benefits
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Provides carbohydrates that can be a good source of energy. The carbohydrates in cornmeal are mainly in the form of starch
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Contains some protein and fiber which helps promote fullness and digestive health
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A good source of B vitamins like niacin, thiamin and riboflavin which are important for energy metabolism and red blood cell formation
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The enrichment process adds key nutrients like iron, folic acid and other vitamins that are important for various bodily functions
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The addition of wheat flour increases its protein content and provides gluten which helps in leavening when used for baking purposes
Risks
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High in calories. Cornmeal is high in calories and should be consumed in moderation as part of an overall healthy diet
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High in carbohydrates. Cornmeal is made from ground corn and is high in carbohydrates which can contribute to weight gain if overconsumed
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May contain gluten. The addition of wheat flour means this cornmeal contains gluten which could be problematic for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity
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Sodium from self-rising. Self-rising cornmeal contains sodium from leavening agents like baking powder which can negatively impact those watching their sodium intake
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Enriched but not whole grain. While enriched, this cornmeal has been bolted which removes the germ and bran making it less nutritious than whole grain cornmeal
Additional Information
Cornmeal, yellow, self-rising, bolted, with wheat flour added, enriched is a versatile food product that offers several nutritional benefits. However, it is important to consider the potential risks associated with its consumption. Let's delve into the nutritional aspects of this item.
Starting with the primary attribute, yellow cornmeal is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy to fuel the body. It contains dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes satiety, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, cornmeal is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
The secondary attribute of self-rising implies that this cornmeal is mixed with leavening agents such as baking powder and salt. This makes it convenient for baking purposes, as it eliminates the need for additional rising agents. However, it is essential to note that self-rising cornmeal may contain higher sodium levels due to the added salt, which can be a concern for individuals with hypertension or those aiming to reduce their sodium intake.
Bolted cornmeal refers to a milling process that removes the husk and germ, resulting in a finer texture. While this process may enhance the texture and appearance of the cornmeal, it also removes some of the beneficial nutrients present in the husk and germ. Consequently, bolted cornmeal may have lower levels of certain vitamins, minerals, and fiber compared to whole grain cornmeal.
With wheat flour added, this cornmeal may have improved baking properties, as wheat flour contains gluten, a protein that provides structure and elasticity to baked goods. However, individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease should be cautious, as this addition makes the product unsuitable for a gluten-free diet.
Lastly, the term "enriched" indicates that certain nutrients lost during processing have been added back to the cornmeal. These typically include B vitamins such as thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and folic acid, as well as iron. Enrichment helps address potential nutrient deficiencies caused by the removal of the germ and husk during the milling process. However, it is important to note that enrichment does not restore all the beneficial compounds found in whole grain cornmeal.
In summary, yellow cornmeal, self-rising, bolted, with wheat flour added, enriched offers several nutritional benefits, including a good source of carbohydrates and dietary fiber. It is also suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities. However, the milling process involved in bolted cornmeal may result in lower levels of certain nutrients and fiber. The addition of wheat flour makes it unsuitable for a gluten-free diet. The enrichment process helps restore some nutrients lost during processing, but it does not fully compensate for the loss of all beneficial compounds found in whole grain cornmeal. Additionally, the sodium content may be higher due to the self-rising attribute, which should be considered by individuals monitoring their sodium intake. As with any food product, moderation and balance are key to incorporating it into a healthy and varied diet.