So many people prefer artisan bread over commercially packaged bread, and it is easy to understand why. Artisan bread is freshly made every day by bakers and has a shelf life of 2-3 days. On the other hand, commercial bread has added preservatives, which make it last for up to a week.
So, what are people losing when they choose commercial bread over artisan bread? Is artisan bread healthy? In this article, we will explore why freshly baked bread is better than commercial bread.
What is Artisan Bread?
There is no set-in-stone definition of artisan bread. It is generally considered as bread made with quality ingredients and a slow fermentation process without the use of additives.
Alternatively, commercial bread is mass-produced following a high-speed method by factory machines. They contain preservatives and dough enhancers that are not found in artisan bread.
Artisan Bread v/s Commercial Bread: Which is Better?
Artisan bread is considered much healthier than commercial bread due to several reasons. The slow fermentation process makes it easy on your gut, and the lack of additives and preservatives also makes up for a healthy breakfast. Here are a few reasons why artisan bread is healthier and better than store-bought bread:
- Artisan Bread is Gluten-free
The slow fermentation breaks down gluten proteins in artisan bread. Once baked, the gluten is easily digestible, making artisan bread suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
- Lack of Preservatives or Additives
While the preservatives and additives in commercial bread are not harmful, they offer no health benefits and detract from the bread’s original recipe. Dough enhancers are mostly used in commercial bread to make up for the shorter fermentation process so that the loaf becomes capable of running through machinery. On the other hand, artisan bread does not contain additives or preservatives, and offers a wide array of health benefits, which we will discuss at length below.
- Long Fermentation is Good for your Gut
Fermented products are loaded with biotics, which are highly beneficial for your gut. These foster healthy bacteria and improve the overall digestive system.
- Artisan Bread Absorb More Nutrients
Once again, due to the longer fermentation, artisan bread contains organic acid, which cancels out phytates. This action improves the absorption of minerals and nutrients in the body.
- Absence of Sugar in Artisan Bread
The longer fermentation not only breaks down gluten in the bread but also turns more starch into sugar, which is absorbed by the yeast to produce gas. During the dough-shaping process in artisan bread, a large amount of gas is removed. The more the gas removed from the bread, the more sugars are consumed. This means that fewer sugars enter your body while eating artisan bread than commercial bread, therefore taking a longer time to digest with the slow release of energy.
- Artisan Bread is Fibre-rich
Artisan bread makers typically use healthy wheat berries, which are extracted from pure white bread. The flour becomes a healthy source of fibre, containing more whole grain content, which is better for your health.
Switch to a Healthy & Nutritious Breakfast with Artisan Bread by Novaks Bakery
Novaks Bakery crafts handmade, artistic artisan bread with fresh ingredients and slow proofing every day. This means that every loaf that reaches you from our bakery is exquisite in taste and texture and provides a host of health benefits.
Sample our sourdough bread and Brioche buns in a variety of flavours and indulge in healthy breakfasts every day.