Canteens looking to offer wholemeal options
For buyers considering wholemeal rusks as a regular option and wanting to compare the wholemeal labelling and fibre per 100 g, rather than relying on colour or the word ‘multigrain’.
Who is this choice relevant to?
Teams with different preferences
For canteens that want to offer a clearly identifiable plain option alongside wholemeal rusks, so employees can choose between the two types.
Buyers who need to display allergen information
For sites where the ingredients for the exact variant need to be clearly displayed at the serving point. For the wholemeal and seed variants described, allergens to look out for include egg, wheat, oats and sesame.
What should you look for when buying?
First decide whether wholemeal will be the standard option and whether you also need a plain variety. Then compare the labels of the specific products, especially if employees serve themselves.
| What to consider | What to check when buying | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Wholemeal and fibre | Look for the word ‘wholemeal’ on the packaging and compare the fibre per 100 g in the varieties you have chosen. | If wholemeal is to be the regular lunch option, I don’t want to rely on a dark colour. Around 40% of consumers give this wholemeal option priority. |
| Choosing between two types | Check that plain and wholemeal are genuinely separate products and remain easy to tell apart when served. | For a team with different preferences, I also want to be able to offer plain rusks. Around 30% of consumers prioritise having this choice. |
| Ingredients and allergens | Read the current label for the exact variant and make the ingredient information accessible when employees serve themselves. | If employees need to watch out for allergens, I want to be able to see clearly which rusks are on each plate. Around 20% of consumers prioritise this information. |
| Stock and salt | Compare pack size, salt per 100 g and storage instructions; adjust the quantity to suit how much the canteen uses. | If stock is not used quickly, I want to be able to store the rusks properly and compare labels. This matters most to around 10% of consumers. |
Common mistakes when choosing
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Assuming dark or multigrain means wholemeal
Colour and visible grains do not confirm that rusks are wholemeal. The Netherlands Nutrition Centre highlights the importance of wholemeal labelling on grain products.
Check for the word ‘wholemeal’ separately on the packaging; assess seeds and colour independently.
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Serving seed-rich rusks without clear product information
The Bolletje variant described, with oats and seeds, also contains sesame. When employees serve themselves, it should be clear which information relates to each plate.
Keep the packaging or current ingredient information with the product, and label different varieties separately.
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Continuing to use an old product description
A change to the recipe or packaging could affect the information the canteen displays alongside the rusks.
Before ordering and on delivery, check the current label, the variety you have chosen and its availability at your site.
Brands to consider
Bolletje
Worth considering if your canteen is looking at both standard wholemeal rusks and an oat and seed variety from the same brand.
- According to the product information at Jumbo, Bolletje Wholemeal Rusks contain 11 g of fibre per 100 g.
- The dark wholemeal variety described contains oats and sesame, among other ingredients. Check the allergen label for each variety you choose.
Albert Heijn
Worth considering for a canteen looking to buy plain and wholemeal varieties as separate options.
- According to Albert Heijn, AH Wholemeal Rusks contain 9 g of fibre and 0.48 g of salt per 100 g; AH also offers plain rusks.
- The wholemeal variety described lists egg, cereals containing gluten and wheat. Check the label on the pack you actually use.
Jumbo
Worth considering when comparing different types of rusks, including plain and wholemeal.
- According to Jumbo, Jumbo Wholemeal Rusks contain 7.7 g of fibre and 0.53 g of salt per 100 g.
- Check that the variety you want is available for your own delivery or store location.
Rusk options at Joybuy
These options include two wholemeal rusks and a separate plain variety. So if your canteen wants to offer both choices, you can place the products side by side and keep them clearly distinguishable.
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Bolletje dark wholemeal rusks, 10 pieces
A wholemeal option for a canteen that may also offer plain rusks.
Pack of 10. Check the current ingredients and allergen information for this variety, including details about oats and sesame.
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Bolletje wholemeal rusks, 13 pieces
A separate wholemeal option for the canteen’s regular rusk choice.
Pack of 13. Before comparing fibre with other products, check the value per 100 g on the label; also read the allergen information.
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g'woon plain rusks, 125 g
A plain option for employees who do not choose the wholemeal variety; offer wholemeal separately if you want to provide both choices.
125 g pack. Check the current label before displaying nutritional values or allergen information at the serving point.
Frequently asked questions
Should a canteen offer plain rusks as well as wholemeal?
Not every canteen needs to. A separate plain option makes sense if employees have different preferences; keep the wholemeal variety clearly available if it is to remain the regular choice.
Are dark or multigrain rusks automatically wholemeal?
No. Check for the word ‘wholemeal’ on the packaging instead of relying on colour, seeds or the word ‘multigrain’.
How do you display allergen information for different types of rusks?
Make sure the current ingredient and allergen information is clearly linked to each variety. Also check the pack actually being served, especially if you offer rusks containing oats or sesame alongside a simpler variety.
How should you store opened rusks in a canteen?
Follow the storage instructions on the packaging and seal opened rusks properly. Keeping them in a dry place helps them stay crisp.
Can you assume that every rusk product contains added iodine?
No, don’t assume this without checking the product. Consult the ingredient information or ask the manufacturer about the exact variety if iodine is important for your menu planning.