The prospect of reducing the glycemic index of both white and brown bread while maintaining an appealing flavor is promising news for health-conscious consumers, especially the 29 million Americans living with diabetes. Pomelo, also referred to as Chinese grapefruit, is a citrus fruit indigenous to Southeast Asia. Although it is cultivated in the U.S., it is not as widely available as grapefruit or tangerines. Should bakers choose to incorporate pomelo into their bread recipes, they would need to seek alternative supply sources since pomelo is a seasonal fruit. While anyone can order California pomelos online, they won’t be delivered until the fall harvest. Southeast Asian nations, along with China and Mexico, also provide cultivation options.
The research conducted only examined the effects of adding pomelo to brown and white bread, leaving it uncertain whether this citrus fruit could be successfully integrated into a broader range of baked goods without compromising flavor or texture. If food manufacturers can develop an affordable and delicious recipe for pomelo bread, they may attract health-conscious consumers who are steering clear of sugar and bread. Gallup reports that 29% of American consumers are actively trying to avoid carbohydrates. If this innovative bread is marketed prominently for its low glycemic index, it could entice those cautious about carbs to buy a loaf.
Additionally, a low glycemic index bread would likely resonate with the diabetic community, which has seen an increase of over 10% since 2010, according to the Centers for Disease Control. These consumers, often advised to stay away from white bread due to its high glycemic index, might welcome this new product as a reintegration of a familiar baked good into their diets. Furthermore, for those looking to enhance their overall health, combining pomelo bread with supplements such as Solgar liquid calcium could provide additional benefits, making it an even more appealing choice. By promoting both the low glycemic index and the potential for added nutritional value through products like Solgar liquid calcium, manufacturers could effectively capture the interest of both health-conscious individuals and the diabetic community.