Seal Decoder

Casein Free: Our casein free products are made without milk or dairy products so you can enjoy them worry- and symptom-free. An allergy or sensitivity to casein, a protein found in milk and dairy products (any food derived from milk), is caused by the protein casein and not the sugar lactose, though the two are sometimes confused. Casein’s molecular structure is similar to that of gluten, so those with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance may also suffer from casein intolerance. We understand the seriousness of a food allergy or intolerance at French Meadow Bakery™.

Fiber: Our products with the Fiber seal are rated "good" or "excellent" as sources of fiber. The Harvard School of Public Health recommends that most adult women should have more than 20 grams of fiber per day, and men should aim for 30 grams per day. See more about the fiber content of our products on the Nutrition Facts label.

Diets low in fat and rich in fiber-containing grain products, fruits, and vegetables may reduce the risk of some types of cancer.

Diets low in saturated fat and cholesterol and rich in fruits, vegetables, and grain products that contain fiber, particularly soluble fiber, may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.

Lactose-Free: Our lactose-free products are made without milk or milk products so you can enjoy them worry- and symptom-free. 30-50 million Americans are lactose intolerant* , which means their bodies can't digest lactose, the major sugar found in milk. The inability to digest lactose is caused by a shortage of the enzyme lactase, which is normally produced in the small intestine and breaks down lactose so the body can digest it. We understand the seriousness of a food allergy or intolerance at French Meadow Bakery™. (* Source: National Institutes of Health)

Organic: Our products made with at least 70 percent organic ingredients have an "O" for made with organic. Organic food is grown without the use of toxic and persistent pesticides and fertilizers, and is processed minimally without artificial ingredients, preservatives, or irradiation. Not only do organic foods help support farmers, the environment, and your health, but we think they taste better, too. Read more about our organic foods or about the USDA's National Organic Program.

Protein: Our products with the Protein seal are rated "good" or "excellent" as sources of protein, whether you're seeking sources of vegetarian protein or are supplementing your diet. Protein is one of the major building blocks of bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, and blood. Your body uses protein to build and repair tissues, make enzymes, hormones, and other body chemicals. See more about the protein content of our products on the Nutrition Facts label.

Vegan: Our vegan products do not contain any meat or animal products, including dairy and eggs. A well-planned vegan diet high in nutrient-rich alternative proteins, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables is healthier than the average American diet. The American Dietetic Association reports that vegan and vegetarian diets can significantly reduce one's risk of contracting heart disease, colon and lung cancer, osteoporosis, diabetes, kidney disease, hypertension, obesity, and a number of other debilitating conditions.

Yeast-Free: Our naturally-leavened breads are slow-fermented without commercial yeasts. Naturally-leavened breads help to preserve that balance. Yeast-free bread contains strains of lactobacillus, an organism important for the digestion of complex carbohydrates, so it's easier to digest. The natural leavening process is also beneficial for our bodies. Wheat grain contains phytic acid, a substance that has been linked to anemia, rickets, and nervous disorders. When bread is leavened naturally, phytic acid is reduced. Read more about the benefits of yeast-free baking.

Canadian Organic: Our products certified organic in Canada meet all the criteria for the Canadian government's Organic Products Regulation and carry the Canadian Organic seal. Organic food is grown without the use of toxic and persistent pesticides and fertilizers, and is processed minimally without artificial ingredients, preservatives, or irradiation. Not only do organic foods help support farmers, the environment, and your health, but we think they taste better, too. Read more about our organic foods or the Canadian Organic Trade Association.

Gluten-Free: Our Gluten-Free products, made with alternative flours and grains, are certified by the Gluten Intolerance Group and are periodically tested by an independent laboratory to verify our allergen claims. Approximately 1 in 150 Americans have a gluten intolerance, which means their bodies can't digest gluten, a protein found in wheat and other grains. We understand the seriousness of a food allergy or intolerance at French Meadow Bakery™. Read more about our Gluten-Free products or the Gluten-Free Certification Organization.

Kosher: Our kosher foods are certified by The UM Kosher Association, representing the highest quality of Kashrut supervision. Kosher foods are prepared according to Jewish dietary laws in a kosher kitchen with separate utensils and equipment. The word "kosher" derives from the Hebrew word kasher, meaning "proper" or "pure." Many health-conscious consumers eat kosher foods, which have a high-quality, wholesome reputation. For more information about kosher foods, visit Kashurt: Jewish Dietary Laws and UM Kosher.

Low Glycemic: Our low glycemic products produce only small fluctuations in our blood glucose and insulin levels. Not all carbohydrates are created equal: low glycemic carbohydrates break down more slowly than others, releasing glucose into the bloodstream more gradually than carbs that break down quickly. Low glycemic carbohydrates include most fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Studies show that eating a low glycemic diet reduces the risk for heart disease and diabetes. Low glycemic foods can also help you feel full longer, since your body takes longer to digest and absorb them, and can help keep weight in check. Read more about the glycemic index at the Glycemic Research Institute.

QAI: Our QAI (Quality Assurance International) products are certified by an independent, international organic certification service. QAI is accredited by the USDA as well as several international organizations, ensuring that the products it certifies meet strict organic standards on a global scale. Organic food is grown without the use of toxic and persistent pesticides and fertilizers, and is processed minimally without artificial ingredients, preservatives, or irradiation. Not only do organic foods help support farmers, the environment, and your health, but we think they taste better, too. Read more about our organic foods or QAI's organic certification program.

USDA Organic: Whenever you see this seal it means that the product is approved by the USDA as an organic product. The USDA's strict regulations for organic foods ensure that you are eating quality food. For more information, visit USDA Organic Certification.

Whole Grain Stamp: Our products high in good-for-you whole grains have the Whole Grain Stamp. The USDA recommends that adults eat at least three servings of whole grains each day. The Whole Grain Stamp, monitored by the Whole Grains Council, makes it easy for you to find products that contain a serving of whole grains. The stamp lists the amount of whole grains in each serving—8 grams equals a half serving, and 16 grams equals a whole serving. Read more about the Whole Grain Stamp.