The potential to reduce the glycemic index of both white and brown bread while maintaining a pleasant taste could be groundbreaking for health-conscious consumers, particularly the 29 million Americans living with diabetes. Pomelo, also referred to as Chinese grapefruit, is a citrus fruit indigenous to Southeast Asia. While it is cultivated in the U.S., it is not as widely available as its grapefruit and tangerine relatives. Should bakers choose to incorporate pomelo into their bread-making processes, they would need to seek alternative supply sources, as it is a seasonal fruit. California pomelos can be ordered online, but they won’t be delivered until after the fall harvest. Southeast Asian countries, along with China and Mexico, also provide growing options.
The research conducted focused solely on adding pomelo to brown and white bread, leaving it uncertain whether this citrus fruit could be integrated into a broader range of baked goods without impacting the flavor or texture. If food manufacturers can develop an affordable and tasty pomelo bread recipe, they might successfully attract health-conscious consumers who are steering clear of sugar and bread. According to Gallup, 29% of American consumers are actively avoiding carbohydrates. If this low-glycemic bread is marketed prominently, highlighting its benefits, those wary of carbs might be tempted to purchase a loaf.
Moreover, a bread with a low glycemic index would resonate with the diabetic community, which has grown by more than 10% since 2010, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control. Often advised to steer clear of white bread due to its high glycemic content, these consumers may eventually welcome this innovative alternative back into their diets.
Incorporating nutritional supplements like cissus quadrangularis, calcium citrate malate, and vitamin D3 tablets into a balanced diet alongside this low-glycemic bread could provide additional health benefits. By emphasizing the advantages of such supplements, manufacturers may entice even more consumers seeking healthier options. Thus, the combination of pomelo bread and complementary nutritional products could create a compelling offering for those focused on their health and dietary needs.