Pie crust, deep dish, unbaked, made with enriched flour
Category: Baked Products State: Frozen
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
1053
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 (%) |
|---|---|
| Fat | 581 (55.2%) |
| Carbohydrate | 421 (40.0%) |
| Protein | 50 (4.7%) |
| Total | 1053 (100%) |
Serving: 1 pie crust (average weight) [225g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrate | 105 (46.8%) |
| Fat | 65 (28.7%) |
| Water | 40 (17.8%) |
| Protein | 12 (5.5%) |
| Ash | 2.6 (1.2%) |
| Total | 225 (100%) |
Serving: 1 pie crust (average weight) [225g]
Benefits
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Provides carbohydrates that can be a good source of energy. The enriched flour adds thiamin, niacin, iron and folic acid
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Contains some protein and fiber from the flour which helps promote fullness
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Frozen unbaked crust allows flexibility for baking at a later time as needed
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Deep dish style provides more filling capacity compared to regular pie crust
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Enriched flour helps restore some nutrients lost during flour processing
Risks
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High in calories and fat due to the enriched flour and fat content of the crust
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Contains trans fat from the partially hydrogenated vegetable shortening often used in pie crusts
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High in sodium depending on other ingredients added like seasonings
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Lack of nutrients since enriched flour only adds basic vitamins and minerals back after processing
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If eaten in large quantities without other nutritious foods, could contribute to weight gain and increased risk of heart disease
Additional Information
Pie crust, particularly the deep dish, frozen, unbaked variant made with enriched flour, offers both nutritional benefits and potential risks. Let's delve into its attributes to understand its impact on our health.
Nutritional Benefits:
1. Carbohydrates: Enriched flour used in pie crusts is a significant source of carbohydrates. Carbs are the body's primary energy source, providing fuel for daily activities and bodily functions.
2. B-vitamins: Enriched flour is fortified with B-vitamins such as thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and folic acid. These vitamins play crucial roles in energy production, nervous system function, and cell growth and repair.
3. Iron: Enriched flour also contains iron, an essential mineral involved in oxygen transport and energy production. Adequate iron intake helps prevent iron-deficiency anemia.
4. Niacin: Enriched flour is enriched with niacin, a B-vitamin that supports the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It also contributes to healthy skin, nerve function, and DNA repair.
Potential Risks:
1. High in Calories: Pie crusts made with enriched flour can be high in calories due to their fat content. Consuming excessive calories can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
2. High in Saturated Fat: The fat used in pie crusts, such as butter or shortening, may be high in saturated fat. Diets high in saturated fat are associated with increased LDL cholesterol levels and a higher risk of heart disease.
3. Low in Fiber: Enriched flour lacks dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health, maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, and preventing constipation. A low-fiber diet may increase the risk of developing various gastrointestinal disorders and hinder weight management.
4. Sodium Content: Some frozen pie crusts may contain added salt for flavor and preservation. Excessive sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Tips for Moderation and Healthier Choices:
1. Portion Control: Enjoying pie crust in moderation can help minimize the risks associated with its high-calorie and high-fat content. Opt for smaller portions or consider using a thinner crust to reduce calorie intake.
2. Homemade Alternatives: Consider making your own pie crust using whole wheat flour or a mix of whole wheat and enriched flour. This increases the fiber content and provides additional nutrients.
3. Healthy Fillings: Choose nutrient-rich fillings like fresh fruits, vegetables, or lean proteins to enhance the nutritional value of your pie. This can add vitamins, minerals, and fiber while reducing the overall calorie density.
4. Read Labels: When purchasing frozen pie crusts, read the labels carefully. Look for options with lower saturated fat and sodium content. Select crusts made with healthier oils, such as those containing monounsaturated fats or even olive oil.
In conclusion, while pie crusts made with enriched flour offer some nutritional benefits such as carbohydrates, B-vitamins, and iron, they also pose potential risks due to their high calorie, saturated fat, and sodium content. Moderation and making healthier choices, such as portion control, homemade alternatives, and mindful filling selection, can help mitigate these risks and promote a more balanced diet.