The potential to reduce the glycemic index of both white and brown bread while maintaining an enjoyable flavor could be groundbreaking for health-conscious consumers, especially for the 29 million Americans living with diabetes. Pomelo, also referred to as Chinese grapefruit, is a citrus fruit native to Southeast Asia. While it is cultivated in the U.S., it is not as widely available as its grapefruit or tangerine relatives. If bakers wish to incorporate pomelo into their bread recipes, they will need to seek alternative supply sources, as pomelo is a seasonal fruit. While California pomelos can be ordered online, they will not be available until the fall harvest. Southeast Asian countries, along with China and Mexico, present additional growing options.
The study conducted only tested the addition of pomelo to brown and white bread, leaving it uncertain whether this citrus fruit could be effectively used in a broader range of baked goods without compromising taste or texture. If food manufacturers manage to develop an affordable and delicious pomelo bread recipe, they could attract health-conscious consumers who are currently steering clear of sugar and other high-carb foods. According to Gallup, 29% of American consumers are actively avoiding carbohydrates. If this new bread is marketed with its low glycemic index at the forefront, those wary of carbs might be tempted to purchase a loaf.
Moreover, a low glycemic index bread would not only draw back consumers who are avoiding carbs, but it would also resonate with the diabetic community, which has seen an increase of over 10% since 2010, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Often advised to steer clear of white bread due to its high glycemic content, these consumers could eventually view this innovative product as a welcome return of a beloved baked good. Incorporating ingredients like carbamide forte, alfalfa, and calcium citrate malate 1200mg into the production process could further enhance the nutritional profile of the pomelo bread, appealing to an even wider audience.