Which size is right for you?

Planning a shared lunch

If several people are joining you for lunch, a standard whole loaf is a sensible starting point. Work out how much bread you want to serve before choosing a type.

Smaller group

If you don’t need a whole loaf, consider a half loaf or individual rolls. If you do buy a whole loaf, check the storage advice for any leftovers.

Checking the labels

If the ingredients matter to your guests, check the wholemeal description, ingredients and allergens on the exact pack. If you have a specific question about baker’s salt, check the label separately.

What should you look for when choosing?

First, work out how many people will be eating bread, then choose the right size. Next, check the label to make sure the loaf you’ve chosen is suitable for what you want to serve and for any guests’ allergies.

What to consider What to check when buying Who is this important for?
Buying just the right amount Compare the quantity of bread in similar whole or half-loaf packs, and choose what you need for lunch. I want enough bread for everyone without buying a larger pack than necessary. Around 50% of consumers prioritise buying just the right amount.
Portions and leftovers See whether a half loaf or individual rolls will be enough. If you buy a whole loaf, check the storage and freezing advice. For a small group, I mainly want to avoid having bread left over after lunch. Around 30% of consumers give top priority to choosing suitable portions.
Label and ingredients Check the wholemeal description, ingredients and allergens. If fibre or salt content matters to your choice, read the nutritional information per 100 g. If guests need to watch what they eat, I want to be able to check the exact pack. Checking the label is the top priority for around 20% of consumers.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming whole and half loaves contain the same amount

    A half loaf and a whole loaf won’t suit the same number of people. What’s more, the size shown on the front doesn’t always tell you exactly how much bread is inside.

    Check the weight or quantity on the pack, and choose an amount to suit the number of people at your table.

  • Confusing brown or artisan bread with wholemeal

    According to the Netherlands Nutrition Centre, wholemeal bread is made from 100% wholemeal flour, while brown bread also contains white flour. So a loaf’s colour or appearance doesn’t prove that it’s wholemeal.

    Look for the wholemeal description on the product and read the ingredients list if necessary.

  • Assuming every branch stocks the same bread

    Lidl says its fresh bread range can vary from one branch to another. This is particularly worth bearing in mind if you want to buy a specific type for your Easter lunch.

    Check the range at the shop you plan to visit in advance.

  • Assuming every loaf contains baker’s salt

    The Netherlands Nutrition Centre states that using baker’s salt in bread is not compulsory. So you can’t tell whether it’s present just from the type of bread.

    If you have a specific question about baker’s salt, check the label or ask the baker.

Supermarkets to consider

Albert Heijn

Albert Heijn shows a range of wholemeal bread styles online, including round loaves and hearth-baked loaves.

  • You can compare different bread styles across the range.
  • Check the weight, ingredients and availability of each loaf you’re considering.

Jumbo

Jumbo lists Fine Wholemeal as both a whole loaf and a half loaf.

  • The two sizes give you a clear choice for a larger or smaller lunch gathering.
  • Check which size matches the amount you want to serve.

Lidl

Lidl’s in-store ranges include freshly baked, pre-packed and bake-at-home bread.

  • Freshly baked bread could be a good choice if you want to pick some up shortly before lunch.
  • Lidl says its fresh range can vary from one branch to another.

ALDI

ALDI lists Fine Wholemeal, a whole loaf, in its fresh daily bread range.

  • A sliced whole loaf is an option if you’re serving sandwiches to several people.
  • When you buy, check the pack for the loaf you’ve chosen and the range at your local shop.

PLUS

PLUS has a product page for Coarse Wholemeal, a whole loaf, with storage advice and product information.

  • PLUS says you can freeze this loaf at home on the day you buy it.
  • If you have allergies, always read the label on the exact pack.

Dirk

Dirk lists wholemeal loaves from Bakker van der Akker, including a farmhouse loaf and a bâtard.

  • You can consider different loaf styles when putting together your own lunch spread.
  • Dirk doesn’t list a delivery service, so bear in mind that you’ll need to visit a shop.

Related products at Joybuy

Related products will be available soon.

Frequently asked questions

Is brown bread the same as wholemeal bread?

No. According to the Netherlands Nutrition Centre, wholemeal bread is made from 100% wholemeal flour, while brown bread also contains white flour. If you specifically want to serve wholemeal bread, look for the wholemeal description.

Does bread always contain baker’s salt?

No. The Netherlands Nutrition Centre says that using baker’s salt in bread is not compulsory, and you can check the label to see whether it has been used. So check the pack you’ve chosen if this matters for your lunch.

What should I do with bread left over after Easter lunch?

Choose a half loaf in advance if that will be enough for your group. If you buy a whole loaf, follow the storage advice for that product. For example, PLUS says its Coarse Wholemeal whole loaf can be frozen at home on the day you buy it.

What should I look out for if a guest has a food allergy?

Check the allergen information on the exact pack you’re buying. The Netherlands Nutrition Centre says common allergens must be clearly listed on the label. The wholemeal description alone won’t tell you which allergens the bread contains.