First Street Garlic Bread: Understanding the Calorie Count
First Street is a popular store brand known for offering affordable groceries, including a variety of baked goods like garlic bread. For individuals monitoring their diet, knowing the nutritional details of these products is important. The calorie content can vary based on the specific type of garlic bread—for instance, the French bread variety versus the sourdough. It's always best to consult the packaging, but here is a breakdown based on available information.
The Calories in Standard French Garlic Bread
For the classic First Street garlic bread on a French loaf, the typical nutritional information indicates 170 calories per serving. It is crucial to note that this is per serving, not per entire loaf. As stated on the product information, a serving size is typically 1/8th of the loaf, which is also approximately 57 grams or 2 ounces. This is an important detail to remember, as it is easy to overconsume by eating multiple servings without realizing it. A standard frozen loaf of garlic bread is often designed to be shared, with multiple servings inside a single package.
Nutritional Breakdown of a Serving
Beyond just calories, the other macronutrients contribute to the overall nutritional profile of First Street garlic bread. Here is a typical breakdown for a single 1/8th loaf serving, based on product information found through retailers and nutritional databases:
- Total Fat: Approximately 6g-8g, which includes saturated and trans fats. This is about 8% to 10% of the daily value based on a 2,000-calorie diet. The fat content comes primarily from the margarine or vegetable oil blend used in the spread.
- Saturated Fat: Around 1.5g-3g. This is a higher proportion of the total fat and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
- Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 25g. The majority of the calories in garlic bread come from carbohydrates found in the enriched wheat flour.
- Dietary Fiber: About 1g. This is a relatively low amount of fiber per serving.
- Sugars: Typically 1g or less. Garlic bread is not a primary source of sugar, with most coming from the bread itself rather than added sweeteners.
- Protein: Approximately 4g. The protein content comes from the enriched wheat flour used in the bread.
- Sodium: Around 340mg-400mg. The sodium level is significant, representing a notable portion of the recommended daily intake. Those on a low-sodium diet should be particularly mindful of this.
Differences in Product Types
First Street also offers other types of garlic bread, and their nutritional values can differ. For example, the Garlic Sourdough Bread offers a different profile. The variation in ingredients, such as different bread bases and spreads, directly impacts the final calorie count and macronutrient distribution.
| Feature | First Street Classic French Garlic Bread | First Street Garlic Sourdough Bread |
|---|---|---|
| Serving Size | 1/8th of a loaf (approx. 57g) | 1 slice (approx. 52g) |
| Calories | 170 calories per serving | 130 calories per slice |
| Total Fat | 6g-8g | 0g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.5g-3g | 0g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g | 26g |
| Sodium | 340mg-400mg | 200mg |
How to Make a Healthier Choice
If you are looking to enjoy garlic bread while being more mindful of your health, there are a few strategies you can employ:
- Mind your portions: Be aware of the serving size and stick to one portion. The most common mistake is assuming the entire loaf is a single serving. Measure it out if necessary.
- Pair with a light meal: Balance the meal by serving garlic bread alongside a vegetable-based soup or a large salad with a light vinaigrette. This helps fill you up without adding excessive calories.
- Make your own: For the most control, consider making your own garlic bread from scratch. This allows you to choose healthier ingredients, such as whole-wheat bread, less butter or oil, and low-sodium seasonings. You can create a healthier version without sacrificing the great taste.
- Check the label: Always read the nutrition label on the back of the package. It will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information for the specific product you are purchasing. For more guidance on reading nutrition labels, consult resources like the FDA's guide: How to Understand and Use the Nutrition Facts Label.
Conclusion
While a delicious addition to many meals, First Street garlic bread is a calorie-dense food, primarily due to its fat and carbohydrate content. A single serving of the French loaf variety provides 170 calories, while a slice of the sourdough is 130 calories. By paying attention to serving sizes and considering healthier alternatives or pairings, you can enjoy this classic side dish without derailing your dietary goals. As with any packaged food, reading the nutritional information on the specific product is the best way to stay informed.