If you’re going to eat the loaf quickly, your best choice is a bakery-fresh loaf of whole grain bread, Cavuto says. But you can still make a healthy choice among packaged breads. In addition to being 100 percent whole grain, “healthy bread should contain at least 3 grams of fiber, less than 200 milligrams of sodium, and less than 2 grams of sugar per slice,” Cavuto says. (She prefers a whole grain Arnold loaf.) “Focus your intentions on nutrient density and ingredient quality instead of calories alone. Avoid artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives whenever possible.”
How Long Will a Loaf of Bread Keep?
While bakery loaves last for two to three days (a few more if toasted), packaged breads stay fresh for a week or two (toss at any signs of mold), and can be frozen for up to three months. The best method to determine freshness is to smell for any off-odors and check for signs of aging. “Most people agree that packaged bread will still be fresh about one week past the sell-by date, though it depends on the brand and the presence or lack of preservatives.” Now that you’re a pro at navigating the bread aisle, it’s time to build the best sandwich, ever.
