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How many calories are in a slice of 50/50 bread?

4 min read

Multiple factors, including slice thickness and brand, influence the total calorie count, but a standard medium slice of 50/50 bread contains approximately 94 calories. This popular bread, which combines the softness of white flour with the fibre of wholemeal, offers a palatable middle-ground for many health-conscious consumers.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for a slice of 50/50 bread varies by slice size and brand, with medium slices typically having around 94 kcal and thick slices about 103 kcal. This bread blends white and wholemeal flour to provide a balance of texture and fibre.

Key Points

  • Calorie Variation: The number of calories in a slice of 50/50 bread depends on its thickness and brand, ranging typically from 94 kcal for a medium slice to over 100 kcal for a thick slice.

  • Medium Slice Count: A medium sliced 50/50 loaf (e.g., Kingsmill) contains approximately 94 calories per slice, based on standard nutritional data.

  • Thick Slice Count: A thick sliced 50/50 loaf from Kingsmill generally contains about 103-104 calories per slice.

  • Nutritional Profile: 50/50 bread is a blend of white and wholemeal flour, offering more fibre and nutrients than pure white bread, but often fewer calories than a very thick wholemeal slice.

  • Informed Choice: To get the most accurate calorie count, always check the specific nutritional information provided on the product's packaging, as values differ by brand and preparation.

  • Dietary Compromise: 50/50 bread is an excellent option for those seeking a healthier alternative to white bread without the denser texture of 100% wholemeal.

In This Article

A Closer Look at the Calorie Count in 50/50 Bread

When you ask "how many calories are in a slice of 50/50?", the answer isn't a single number. Instead, it’s a range that depends on a few specific variables, with the most significant being the slice thickness and the brand. 50/50 bread is a popular option, prized for its compromise between the soft texture of white bread and the added fibre and nutrients found in wholemeal varieties. Here, we break down the most common calorie figures and explore the factors that cause them to differ.

Typical Calorie Breakdown by Slice Thickness

For a common brand like Kingsmill, a 50/50 slice's calorie content is clearly labelled, showing a consistent difference between sizes:

  • Kingsmill Medium Sliced 50/50: Contains approximately 94 calories per slice. This is often the most common variety found in grocery stores and is a great reference point for the average slice.
  • Kingsmill Thick Sliced 50/50: Contains around 103-104 calories per slice. The extra grams of bread per slice account for the higher energy value.
  • Kingsmill No Crusts 50/50: This is a lighter option, with only 47 calories per slice. Its smaller size and lack of crust contribute to a significantly lower count.
  • Other Brands: Calories can vary. A different brand, Gadsby's, lists its 50:50 sliced bread at 97 calories per slice. Always check the specific nutritional information on the packaging of the product you are purchasing.

What Influences a Slice's Calorie Content?

Several factors contribute to the final energy value of a single slice of 50/50 bread. It's not just a simple 50-50 mix of flours. The manufacturing process and specific ingredients also play a role.

  • Slice Thickness: This is the most obvious factor. A thicker slice simply weighs more and therefore contains more calories. The examples above show a clear 9-10 calorie difference between a medium and thick slice from the same brand.
  • Brand and Recipe: Each brand uses a slightly different recipe, which can affect the final nutritional profile. Variations in the ratio of white to wholemeal flour, the type and amount of vegetable oils used, and the addition of other ingredients can all alter the calorie count. For example, some loaves are fortified with extra vitamins, which can impact the overall composition.
  • Loaf Size and Slice Count: The way a loaf is cut and packaged can influence the calorie information per slice. A smaller loaf may have smaller or fewer slices, altering the per-slice calorie distribution. Retailers like Tesco or Sainsbury's will have specific nutritional tables for their individual Kingsmill products, for example.

50/50 Bread vs. Other Loaves: A Calorie Comparison

To put the 50/50 loaf into context, here is a comparison of its typical nutritional data against both standard white and 100% wholemeal bread. This shows where 50/50 fits as a nutritional compromise.

Bread Type Typical Calories per Slice Key Characteristics Fibre Content (per slice)
50/50 (Medium) 94 kcal Blend of white and wholemeal; soft texture with more fibre. 1.9g
Standard White ~75 kcal Less fibre; very soft texture. ~1g
Standard Wholemeal 82 kcal Highest fibre and nutrient content; denser texture. 1.9g+ (varies)
50/50 (Thick) 103 kcal Thicker slice means more calories but retains the blended benefits. 2.1g

Making a Healthy Choice

While white bread is slightly lower in calories per slice, its lower fibre content means it offers less satiety, and the body digests it more quickly. The 50/50 loaf provides a significant boost in fibre compared to white bread, which helps with digestive health and makes you feel full for longer, helping to manage appetite. Wholemeal remains the most nutritionally dense option, but some people find its texture or taste less appealing. For those seeking a compromise that provides more nutritional value without a drastic change in taste, 50/50 is an excellent and practical choice. The added fibre and vitamins in 50/50 bread are key benefits for those transitioning from white bread to wholemeal.

Conclusion

In summary, the number of calories in a slice of 50/50 bread is not fixed, but typically falls in the 90-105 calorie range depending on thickness. A medium slice is around 94 kcal, while a thick slice is approximately 103 kcal. Ultimately, 50/50 bread offers a balanced nutritional profile that combines the palatable texture of white bread with the increased fibre content of wholemeal, making it a valuable addition to many diets. As always, for the most accurate information, it's best to consult the specific product's nutritional label, as variations exist between brands and slice cuts.

Optional Outbound Link: For more detailed nutritional breakdowns, you can check brand websites like Kingsmill Bakery.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional nutritional advice. All nutritional information is based on typical values and may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

A medium slice of 50/50 bread from a popular brand like Kingsmill typically contains about 94 calories.

Yes, 50/50 bread is generally considered healthier than regular white bread because it contains a higher percentage of wholemeal flour, which provides more fibre and nutrients.

Yes, a thicker slice of 50/50 bread has more calories than a medium slice. For example, a thick slice can have approximately 103 calories compared to 94 in a medium slice from the same brand.

For two medium slices, you can expect around 188 calories (94 kcal x 2). For two thick slices, the total would be approximately 206 calories (103 kcal x 2).

No, toasting bread does not significantly change its calorie content. It only removes moisture, which can make the slice feel lighter, but the energy value remains essentially the same.

It's called '50/50' because it is made with a blend of two different flours: typically 50% white wheat flour and 50% wholemeal or whole grain wheat flour.

A medium slice of 50/50 bread contains approximately 1.9g of fibre, providing a healthy boost compared to standard white bread.

In many cases, yes. Brands like Kingsmill specifically state that their 50/50 bread is suitable for vegans, but it's always best to check the ingredient list to be certain.

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.