Barbecue host who likes to keep things simple
Looking for plain rusks as a base for different toppings and checking how many rusks come in a roll.
Who is this for?
Guest who prefers wholemeal
Wants to offer a wholemeal option at the barbecue and checks that it’s labelled as such on the pack.
Label-conscious shopper
Checks the ingredients and allergens for the variety they’ve chosen. If you want to check for baker’s salt, look for that information on the label too.
What should you look for when choosing?
Decide how many rusks you want to serve, then choose between plain, wholemeal or seeded. Before serving, read the label on the exact pack you’ve bought.
| What to consider | What to check when buying | Who is this important to? |
|---|---|---|
| Quantity and plain variety | Check the number of rusks or the net weight, then work out how many rolls you’ll need for the toppings you plan to offer. | If I’m putting out a selection of toppings, I want enough plain rusks without ending up with too many left over. For around 42% of consumers, getting the quantity right comes first. |
| Wholemeal and seeds | Check the product name and ingredients for the variety you’ve chosen; wholemeal rusks and seeded rusks don’t have the same ingredients. | If you like to offer a wholemeal option, you’ll want to check that the rusks you’ve chosen fit the bill. Around 33% of consumers say this product choice is their priority. |
| Ingredients and allergens | Read the latest ingredients and allergen information. Check for baker’s salt too if that’s important to your choice. | If I’m catering for what my guests can eat, I need to check the exact variety rather than rely on the front of the pack. For around 25% of consumers, checking the label matters most. |
Common mistakes
-
Assuming all rusks are made with baker’s salt
You can’t tell whether baker’s salt has been used just from the product category. The Netherlands Nutrition Centre states that baking with baker’s salt is not compulsory.
If you want to know whether it’s used in the rusks you’re serving, read the ingredients list for that variety or ask the manufacturer.
-
Judging allergens by the front of the pack
Varieties can differ: product information for Bolletje rusks lists ingredients including wheat, egg and sesame, depending on the product.
Before buying and serving, check the latest ingredients and allergen information on the pack you’ve chosen.
-
Preparing the rusks with toppings too far in advance
Moisture can affect the crisp texture of rusks.
Store the roll in a cool, dry, dark place, as Jumbo recommends for its plain rusks. Seal an opened pack securely and add the toppings shortly before serving.
Brands to consider
Bolletje
Bolletje offers classic and wholemeal rusks, among other varieties. The ingredients and seeds vary from product to product.
- The product information distinguishes between original, wholemeal and dark wholemeal rusks, among other varieties.
- Check the variety you’ve chosen individually: the original rusks, for example, list wheat flour and egg, while the dark wholemeal variety contains seeds.
Albert Heijn
Albert Heijn sells plain and wholemeal rusks under its own brand.
- You can choose between a plain and a wholemeal variety in its range.
- Albert Heijn notes that ingredients, nutritional values and allergy information can change, so check the latest pack.
Jumbo
Jumbo offers, among other things, a roll of 13 plain rusks.
- Jumbo describes these plain rusks as baked twice.
- For this roll, Jumbo recommends storing it in a cool, dry, dark place.
PLUS
PLUS sells both plain rusks and wholemeal rusks with seeds.
- The seeded variety is sold as a separate wholemeal product.
- Don’t assume the plain and seeded varieties have the same ingredients; check the label on the roll you choose.
Goud Gebakken (ALDI)
ALDI lists plain and wholemeal rusks from Goud Gebakken.
- ALDI states that both varieties described come in packs of 13.
- Check the ingredients and allergens on the pack for the variety you choose.
Lidl
Lidl has a product page for wholemeal rusks.
- It’s an option to look at if you’re specifically after wholemeal rusks.
- Check the pack for the ingredients, allergens and quantity of the product you’re taking home.
Wholemeal rusks at Joybuy
These two Bolletje varieties are for anyone looking to offer wholemeal rusks at the barbecue. The dark variety also contains seeds; check the ingredients on each pack to find the right option for your guests.
No image available
Bolletje dark wholemeal rusks – 10 pieces
A great choice if you want to serve wholemeal rusks with seeds.
The product information states that these are 100% wholemeal and come in a pack of 10. It also lists wheat, oats, barley and sesame; check the latest pack before serving the rusks to your guests.
No image available
Bolletje wholemeal rusks – 13 pieces
A good choice if you’re looking for a wholemeal variety without the specific seeds found in the dark variety.
The roll contains 13 rusks. Check the latest pack for the full ingredients and allergen information.
Frequently asked questions
Should I choose plain or wholemeal rusks for the barbecue?
Choose plain if you mainly want a simple base for different toppings; choose wholemeal if you’re specifically looking for that grain composition. Check the pack to make sure the variety you’ve chosen is wholemeal.
Are rusks always made with baker’s salt?
No, you can’t tell from the name alone. According to the Netherlands Nutrition Centre, baking with baker’s salt is not compulsory. Check the ingredients list for your chosen variety if you want to know whether it’s been used.
Which allergens should I check in rusks?
Check the allergens for the exact variety you’re serving. Product information for Bolletje varieties lists ingredients such as wheat, egg or sesame, but the ingredients vary by product, so always refer to the latest pack.
How do I keep rusks crisp until serving?
Store rusks somewhere dry and seal the pack securely after opening. Jumbo recommends keeping its plain rusks in a cool, dry, dark place; add toppings shortly before serving.