Refined Grains
ProcessedOverview
Processed grain products with bran and germ removed, including white rice, refined wheat products, pasta, and instant grains. Common in ultra-processed foods due to extended shelf life and neutral flavor.
25,996
Products contain this
2,043
Ingredient variations
Common forms
White flour, white rice, refined wheat, modified starches
Function
Provides quick-cooking carbohydrates with smooth texture and mild flavor. Used in instant products, breakfast cereals, snack foods, and as fillers in processed meat products.
Sources
Grains undergo milling to remove outer bran layer and nutrient-rich germ, leaving starchy endosperm. Often bleached, enriched with synthetic vitamins, and further processed into various forms.
Health Considerations
Lower in fiber, vitamins, and minerals compared to whole grains. Higher glycemic index may contribute to blood sugar fluctuations. Enrichment replaces some but not all nutrients removed in refining.
Regulatory
FDA mandates enrichment of refined grain products with thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folic acid, and iron to replace nutrients lost in processing.
Common Variations (50 total)
Products Containing Refined Grains
Showing 12 of 25,996 products, sorted by processing level