For generously topped rye bread, comparing the number of slices in packs of the same weight is a useful starting point: Jumbo lists 10 slices per 500 g for Van Dijk's, while Albert Heijn describes Hollandia as 12 thin slices per 500 g. A heavier slice is not automatically sturdier under toppings, so also check how the slices are cut and what’s in the pack you choose.
Want room for hummus, egg, cheese or leftovers from dinner? Compare the pack weight and number of slices. If the product description says the slices are thin, that’s useful information when making your choice too.
Check how many slices are in a pack and follow the storage instructions once it’s opened. This will help you decide whether the pack suits the meals you have planned.
Compare the grains, nutritional information and allergens listed for each product. If you need to avoid a particular ingredient, check the current packaging rather than relying on the name ‘rye bread’ alone.
First, decide whether a slice that can take plenty of toppings, the number of meals you can get from the pack or the ingredients matter most to you. Then check that feature on the specific pack.
| What to consider | Check | Who it’s for |
|---|---|---|
| A slice for plenty of toppings | Compare the number of slices in packs of the same weight and check whether the slices are described as thin. | If I want to pile plenty of toppings onto one slice, I look for a size that can handle them. For around 40% of consumers, slice size is the top priority. |
| Number of meals | Check the number of slices and the storage instructions for once the pack is open. | If I want to use the same pack over several days, the number of individual slices matters to me. That’s the top priority for an estimated 30% of consumers. |
| Ingredients and nutritional information | Read the grains and allergens listed; compare nutritional values on the same basis, such as per 100 g. | If I’m looking for a particular wholegrain base or ingredients list, that takes priority over slice size. It’s the main consideration for around 30% of consumers. |
For the same pack weight, Jumbo lists 10 slices for Van Dijk's, while Albert Heijn lists 12 thin slices for Hollandia. So the pack weight alone doesn’t tell you how large each slice is.
Divide the pack weight by the number of slices to work out the average weight per slice, and also check how the slices are described.
The products described contain rye; some also list wheat, barley or other allergens. The brand name or dark colour won’t tell you whether they’re gluten-free.
If you need to avoid certain ingredients, check the current ingredients and allergen information on the packaging every time you buy.
Information from the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority about iodine compounds in baker’s salt doesn’t tell you which type of salt has been used in an individual rye bread product.
If this matters to you, check the ingredients for the specific product.
A Frisian rye bread for which Jumbo lists the number of slices.
Frisian rye bread for anyone who wants to take the stated wholegrain base into account.
Dark sourdough rye bread for anyone looking for individual thin slices.
Frisian rye bread where the grain base and allergens are worth checking.
Organic wholegrain rye bread with linseed for anyone looking for those specific ingredients.
This rye bread is one option to consider if you’re looking for individual slices for a student supper. Check the packaging to make sure the size and ingredients suit your plans.
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A pack of 9 pieces, ideal for planning individual slices for several meals. Before deciding whether this rye bread suits your toppings and any allergies, check the slice thickness and ingredients on the packaging.
Compare the number of slices in packs of the same weight and check whether the product is described as thinly sliced. Jumbo lists 10 slices in 500 g for Van Dijk's; Albert Heijn describes Hollandia as 12 thin slices in 500 g. Check the packaging if the product information doesn’t give a slice count.
Don’t assume it is: the rye breads described contain rye, and some products also list wheat or barley. If you need to avoid gluten, check that the specific product is labelled gluten-free and read the current allergen information.
You can’t tell from the name ‘rye bread’ alone. The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority discusses iodine compounds in baker’s salt used for bread and other bakery products; check the ingredients to see what’s listed for your pack.
Follow the instructions on the packaging of the product you choose. PLUS’s product information for Bolletje and Albert Heijn’s for Hollandia advise keeping the rye bread sealed in the fridge once opened.
