Fussy eaters who want to try wholemeal
If a coarse texture is off-putting, a finely milled wholemeal option could be a good type of bread to try first. Check the texture of each product, as wholemeal loaves don’t all have the same crumb.
Who might this choice matter to?
Anyone putting together a mixed bread spread
If you’re expecting guests with different preferences on King's Day, you could serve a wholemeal option alongside a lighter bread. Check the product name and ingredients rather than judging the type of bread by its colour alone.
Shoppers who pay attention to nutritional value
If wholemeal is your priority and a firmer texture doesn’t bother you, a standard wholemeal loaf is also worth considering. The Netherlands Nutrition Centre highlights the fibre, vitamins and minerals in wholemeal bread.
What should you look for when choosing?
First decide what matters most for your bread spread: choosing wholemeal, finding something fussy eaters will enjoy, or getting the right quantity. Then compare the specific loaves by checking their packaging and nutritional information.
| What to consider | What to check before buying | Who it matters most to |
|---|---|---|
| Wholemeal options | Check the wholemeal label and ingredients. If needed, compare fibre per 100 g for loaves with the same nutritional basis. | If I don’t want to serve only white bread, I want to know which loaf is genuinely wholemeal. Around 45% of consumers say this is their top priority. |
| Mild flavour and fine texture | Check whether the product is described as fine wholemeal and look at the crumb of the specific loaf. Seeds can put some eaters off. | When serving fussy eaters, I want to avoid a coarse texture limiting the choice of bread. Around 33% of consumers put finding something these eaters will enjoy first. |
| Quantity and storage | Choose a half or whole loaf based on the number of guests and the rest of the meal. Freeze any unused portions promptly. | For a celebration, I want to offer plenty of choice without ending up with lots of leftover bread. The right quantity is the main concern for around 22% of consumers. |
Common mistakes
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Assuming dark or multigrain bread is wholemeal
The colour doesn’t tell you whether a loaf is made with refined flour, flour or wholemeal flour, explains Brood.net. The label ‘multigrain’ doesn’t answer that question either.
Look for ‘wholemeal’ in the product name or description, and read the ingredients list.
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Assuming a fine crumb tells you anything about allergens
A fine texture doesn’t automatically make a loaf suitable for every guest. Allergens depend on the ingredients in the specific product.
Check the label on packaged bread. For unpackaged bread, ask about allergen information before buying; the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority explains how allergens must be labelled.
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Buying more whole loaves than you need
After a one-day celebration, you could be left with unused bread that loses its quality.
Choose half or whole loaves to suit the number of guests, and freeze any portions you won’t use straight away. The Netherlands Nutrition Centre recommends freezing bread in portions after buying it.
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Relying only on an online range listing
The in-store selection may differ from what you saw online earlier. Lidl, for example, says its range can vary by store.
Check the latest product information before you shop, and ask your local store what it can supply if you need a larger quantity.
Brands to consider
Albert Heijn
A place to compare different wholemeal and other types of bread.
- Albert Heijn’s own range includes AH Tijger volkoren and AH OerDesem volkoren Allinson.
- Compare the ingredients of your chosen product and check current availability.
Jumbo
An option for comparing different shapes and textures within the wholemeal range.
- Jumbo lists products including Fijn Volkoren, Rond Fijn Volkoren and Grof Volkoren.
- The word ‘fine’ doesn’t tell you which allergens a loaf contains, so read the label on the product you choose.
Lidl
Worth considering if you’re looking for an extra-finely milled wholemeal option for fussy eaters.
- Lidl lists a kids’ wholemeal loaf made with extra-finely milled wholemeal flour. Lidl says it tastes like brown bread and contains just as much fibre as wholemeal bread.
- The bread range can vary by store, so contact your local branch in advance if you need a large quantity.
ALDI
A place to compare fine wholemeal with other types of bread.
- ALDI lists Fijn Volkoren as sliced bread, as well as white and wholemeal options.
- Check the packaging and ingredients of the product available in store when you buy it.
PLUS
An option if you want to check the ingredients and nutritional information for fine wholemeal bread.
- PLUS provides an ingredients list, allergen information and nutritional information for Rond fijn volkoren heel.
- PLUS warns that product information can change, so check the label on the loaf you buy.
Dirk
A place to compare different types of bread for a mixed spread.
- Dirk lists wholemeal, white, multigrain and sourdough bread, as well as half and whole loaves.
- Check the ingredients and available sizes for each loaf you’re considering.
Bread options at Joybuy
These options include a wholemeal flatbread and round wholemeal loaves for a bread spread or picnic. They aren’t automatically the same as fine wholemeal bread. If a mild flavour or fine crumb is essential, check that specific product for these qualities.
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Souq Lebanese Bread Whole Wheat, 6 P
A wholemeal flatbread to consider if that shape suits your bread spread or picnic better than a standard sliced loaf. Check the texture yourself if you’re buying for fussy eaters, and read the packaging label for guests with allergies.
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Lekhaven Bakkerij round wholemeal bread, 550 g × 2
A pack of two round loaves for anyone who wants to put more than one loaf on the table. Allow time to defrost and bake before serving. Check the crumb if you’re looking for a fine texture, and read the packaging for guests with allergies.
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Lekhaven Bakkerij round wholemeal bread, 550 g
One round loaf may suit your planned quantity better than a pack of two. This loaf also needs to be defrosted and baked before use. Check the crumb separately if finding something fussy eaters will enjoy is your priority, and check the packaging for allergen information.
Frequently asked questions
Is dark or multigrain bread always wholemeal?
No. Colour and the word ‘multigrain’ don’t prove that a loaf is wholemeal. Brood.net explains that the colour doesn’t show whether refined flour, flour or wholemeal flour has been used, so check the product name, description and ingredients.
Should I check for allergens when buying bread for guests?
Yes. Check the allergen information for every loaf you plan to serve, even if it’s a fine or mild variety. The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority says allergens must be listed on the label of prepacked foods. For unpackaged bread, ask for the information before buying.
What should I do with leftover bread after King's Day?
Freeze any portions you won’t use straight away so you don’t have to store or defrost the whole loaf at once. The Netherlands Nutrition Centre recommends freezing bread in portions after buying it and taking out only what you need.
Can I order bread rolls from Lidl in advance for a large group?
Ask your local Lidl store what’s possible before relying on them for a large quantity. Lidl says its range can vary by store and advises customers to contact their local branch about larger orders of bread rolls.