Party organiser checking for allergens
Before serving, checks that the ingredients and any warnings on the pack are suitable for all the children who will be eating.
Who is this choice relevant to?
Parent comparing fibre and wholemeal options
Wants to see how much fibre a rusk contains per 100 g on the nutrition information and checks the ingredients list to see whether wholemeal flour has been used.
Party buffet planner
Looks for rusks with visible seeds to serve with toppings, and considers the size, quantity and storage instructions after opening when shopping.
What should you look for when choosing?
First check that the rusks are suitable for your guests’ allergies. Then compare the nutrition information, seed mix and quantity you want to serve.
| What to consider | What to check when buying | Who should pay particular attention? |
|---|---|---|
| Allergens | Check the current label for wheat, sesame and egg, as well as warnings about the possible presence of other allergens. | I want every child who is eating to have a suitable option. That’s why around 33% of consumers put allergen checks first. |
| Fibre and wholemeal | Compare the fibre per 100 g and check whether wholemeal flour is listed in the ingredients. | If the rusks are suitable for my guests, I also want to compare the nutrition information; around 27% of consumers give fibre and wholemeal the highest priority. |
| Seeds and texture | Check which seeds have been used and whether the size suits the toppings you want to offer. | For more variety on the buffet, I’m looking for rusks with a distinct seed mix. This is the biggest consideration for around 20% of consumers. |
| Portions and storage | Check the number of rusks or the weight per pack, and follow the storage instructions after opening. | I want to put out enough rusks without keeping an opened pack for longer than necessary; portion planning is the deciding factor for around 20% of consumers. |
Common mistakes
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Assuming multiseed rusks are suitable for every child
The varieties we looked at contain wheat and sesame; some also list egg. A seed mix doesn’t mean a product is suitable for someone with an allergy.
Ask about any relevant dietary requirements in advance, read the current pack and, if needed, have a separate, clearly labelled alternative available.
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Looking only at the fibre content
Fibre per 100 g is useful for comparing products, but it doesn’t tell you whether a rusk is suitable for the children’s allergies or preferences.
Check the allergens first, then compare the fibre, ingredients and size.
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Overlooking the size and number of rusks
An extra-large rusk calls for different portion planning from a smaller one, especially if you’re serving other food too.
Check the pack before deciding how many to buy, and follow the storage instructions on the label after opening.
Brands compared
Bolletje
Bolletje Vezelrijk Meerzaden Beschuit is an extra-large variety featuring several named seeds and kernels.
- Bolletje and Jumbo list sunflower seeds, linseeds, sesame seeds and pumpkin seeds, among others; Jumbo states that it contains 10 g of fibre per 100 g.
- Bolletje and Jumbo state that this variety contains wheat and sesame. Bolletje also notes the possible presence of other cereals containing gluten.
Albert Heijn
Albert Heijn offers a standard multiseed rusk and an organic wholemeal variety, each with ingredients and nutrition information you can compare separately.
- For its standard variety, Albert Heijn lists over 16% seeds and kernels and 7 g of fibre per 100 g. Its organic wholemeal variety contains 11 g of fibre per 100 g.
- For the varieties we looked at, Albert Heijn lists egg, sesame and cereals containing gluten. Always check the pack you buy.
TastyBasics
TastyBasics Beschuit Meerzaden is a variety whose product information lists sesame seeds, linseeds and wholemeal flour.
- Jumbo states that these rusks contain 11 g of fibre and 20 g of protein per 100 g.
- Jumbo lists egg, sesame and cereals containing gluten, including wheat, spelt and barley.
Multiseed rusks at Joybuy
These rusks are a good fit for a buffet if you’re looking for a seed mix. Before buying, check that the ingredients are suitable for the children who will be eating, and plan portions using the pack as a guide.
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Bolletje multiseed rusks, 10 pieces
Multiseed rusks for a party buffet, provided the ingredients are suitable for your guests. The pack contains 10 rusks. Check the current label for allergens and bear their size in mind when serving.
Frequently asked questions
Which allergens should I check in multiseed rusks for a children’s party?
At the very least, check the current label for wheat, sesame and egg, and read any warnings about the possible presence of other allergens. These ingredients are found in the varieties we looked at, although the information varies by product. The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority identifies the ingredients list as an important place to find allergen information on pre-packed foods.
Can I serve the multiseed rusks we looked at if a child needs to eat gluten-free?
No. Don’t assume these varieties are gluten-free: the product information from Bolletje, Albert Heijn and TastyBasics lists cereals containing gluten. If needed, choose a separate product and check its current label to make sure it’s suitable.
How can I keep rusks crisp until the party?
After opening, follow the storage instructions on the pack and seal it tightly. Put the rusks out just before serving, especially if you plan to add toppings.
Does this rusk contain iodine from baker’s salt?
You can’t tell from a label that lists only ‘salt’. If the type of salt matters to you, check the pack or ask the manufacturer. General information about baker’s salt doesn’t confirm which salt was used in a particular rusk.