The potential to reduce the glycemic index of both white and brown bread while maintaining an enjoyable flavor could be promising news for health-conscious consumers, especially the 29 million Americans living with diabetes. Pomelo, sometimes referred to as Chinese grapefruit, is a citrus fruit that originates from Southeast Asia. While it is cultivated in the U.S., it is less widespread than its grapefruit and tangerine relatives. If bakers wish to incorporate pomelo into their bread-making processes, they will need to seek alternative supply sources, as this fruit is seasonal. Although California pomelos can be ordered online, deliveries will not arrive until the fall harvest. Options for sourcing this fruit are also available in Southeast Asian countries, as well as in China and Mexico.
The research conducted only explored the addition of pomelo to brown and white bread, leaving it uncertain whether this citrus could be integrated into a wider range of baked products without compromising flavor or texture. Should food manufacturers develop an affordable and palatable pomelo bread recipe, they might successfully attract health-conscious consumers who are currently avoiding sugar and bread. According to Gallup, 29% of American consumers are actively steering clear of carbohydrates. If this new bread is promoted with its low glycemic index prominently highlighted, those cautious about carbs may be tempted to try a loaf.
Moreover, a low glycemic index bread could be particularly appealing to the diabetic community, which has seen an increase of over 10% since 2010, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control. Traditionally advised to avoid white bread due to its high glycemic levels, these consumers might welcome the return of this baked product. Additionally, integrating health-boosting ingredients such as calcium citrate malate vitamin D3 and folic acid tablets into the formulation could enhance its nutritional profile. By doing so, bakers could further entice both carb-avoiding individuals and those managing diabetes, potentially leading to a successful new product line that resonates with health-conscious consumers.