The Calorie Count for Sara Lee Artesano Original
As confirmed by the manufacturer's nutritional labeling, a single slice of Sara Lee Artesano Original Bakery Bread contains 110 calories. The serving size is approximately 38 grams. A detailed look at the nutritional breakdown reveals where these calories come from:
- Total Fat: 1.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: <1g
- Total Sugars: 2g (which includes 2g of Added Sugars)
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
This breakdown shows that the majority of the calories in a slice of Artesano come from carbohydrates, which is typical for most bread products. The thicker cut of this specific bread means that a single slice packs more weight—and therefore more calories and macronutrients—than a slice of thinner white bread.
What Makes Artesano Different from Standard White Bread?
The "artesano" style refers to a soft, thick-sliced bread with a rich flavor and a soft, fluffy texture. Unlike traditional homemade artisan breads that rely on minimal ingredients, the commercially produced Artesano bread is enriched with ingredients like sugar, soybean oil, and cultured wheat flour to achieve its signature taste and texture. It is marketed as being free from high fructose corn syrup, artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. This makes it a popular choice for everything from gourmet sandwiches to French toast.
Artesano Calorie Comparison Table
To put the 110 calories in a slice of Artesano bread into perspective, consider how it stacks up against other popular breads. Note that serving sizes may vary, but the below comparison uses standard approximations.
| Bread Type | Calories per Slice (Approx.) | Serving Size (g) | Key Differentiator |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sara Lee Artesano Original | 110 | 38 | Thick, fluffy, rich texture |
| Standard Thin-Sliced White | 70-80 | ~26 | Lighter, less dense texture |
| Standard Whole Wheat | 80-90 | ~26 | Higher fiber content, whole grains |
| Sourdough | 90-100 | ~35 | Tangy flavor, fermented grains |
| Sara Lee Artesano Brioche Style | 110 | 38 | Richer, buttery flavor |
Considering Other Artesano Varieties
While the Original Artesano is the most common, Sara Lee also offers other varieties that generally maintain a similar calorie profile. For example, the Brioche Style Artesano also comes in at 110 calories per slice, though with a slightly different fat and sugar breakdown. Always check the specific nutritional label for any bread variety you choose, as small differences in ingredients can impact the final macronutrient count.
Factors that Influence Bread Calories
Beyond the specific variety, several factors can affect the total calorie count of your bread-based meal.
- Toppings and Spreads: Adding butter, jam, or peanut butter significantly increases the calorie count. For instance, a tablespoon of butter can add over 100 calories.
- Toast vs. Plain: Toasting bread does not change its calorie content, despite the misconception that it "burns off" calories. It simply removes moisture.
- Portion Size: The serving size is key. A thick-cut slice like Artesano will naturally have more calories than a thinner slice of a different bread. Using half a slice for a smaller sandwich can help manage calories.
Tips for Incorporating Artesano into a Calorie-Conscious Diet
Here is a list of strategies to enjoy Artesano while staying mindful of your calorie goals:
- Measure your spreads: Use a measuring spoon for butter, cream cheese, or jam instead of spreading freely to control portions.
- Choose lean fillings: Pair your Artesano with lean protein like turkey breast or egg whites instead of high-fat processed meats.
- Load up on vegetables: Add a generous amount of fresh veggies like lettuce, tomato, and cucumber to your sandwich for added nutrients and volume with minimal calories.
- Consider open-faced sandwiches: Use a single slice of bread instead of two to cut the bread's calories in half for a meal.
- Explore other varieties: For daily consumption, a thinner whole wheat bread may be a better option for managing total calorie intake due to its higher fiber and lower per-slice calories.
Conclusion
One slice of Sara Lee Artesano Original Bakery Bread contains 110 calories, a figure that is higher than many standard sandwich breads due to its thick, fluffy texture. While its rich flavor and satisfying bite make it a popular choice, calorie-conscious individuals should be mindful of portion sizes and accompanying toppings. By being aware of its nutritional profile and making smart choices, you can still enjoy Artesano bread as part of a balanced diet.
For more detailed nutritional information, you can always refer to databases like Nutritionix.
