Rowan Hill Bakery

Plain Bagels

Barcode 20720018

Scanned 54 times by Nomi users

Yes — Plain Bagels is ultra-processed.

Classified as ultra-processed because the ingredient list includes preservatives (calcium propionate) and malted barley spirit vinegar, which are industrial additives/formulations beyond basic culinary ingredients, fitting NOVA’s definition of UPF.

Ingredients

No ultra-processed markers

OK

wheat flour

A basic flour ground from wheat, often enriched with added minerals and vitamins.
OK

water

Essential base ingredient for countless foods and beverages; serves as solvent and texture modifier.
OK

rye flour

Finely milled flour produced from rye grains; a common cereal grain used in breads and baked goods.
OK

yeast

A living microorganism used as a leavening agent in baking.
OK

sugar

Granulated sugar derived from sugarcane or sugar beets; a basic, single-ingredient sweetener.
OK

rapeseed oil

A basic culinary oil pressed from rapeseeds (Brassica napus). Used for frying, baking, and dressings. Neutral flavor.
OK

maize (corn)

A basic staple grain used as a food ingredient; kernels from Zea mays.
OK

salt

Common mineral compound (sodium chloride) used as a seasoning and preservative across cuisines.
OK

preservatives: calcium propionate; wheat gluten
OK

malted barley spirit vinegar
OK

ascorbic acid (vitamin c) used as flour treatment agent

Ascorbic acid added to flour as a processing agent to improve dough strength and flour performance; commonly used as a bakery additive.

Healthier alternatives

Reviewed by Nomi

Similar products that aren't ultra-processed — swap and keep the flavour.

Swap it for something less processed

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Other drinks Nomi has checked — these ones aren't ultra-processed.

Common questions about Plain Bagels

Is Plain Bagels ultra-processed?

Yes — Plain Bagels by Rowan Hill Bakery is ultra-processed, so it counts as a UPF (ultra-processed food). Classified as ultra-processed because the ingredient list includes preservatives (calcium propionate) and malted barley spirit vinegar, which are industrial additives/formulations beyond basic culinary ingredients, fitting NOVA’s definition of UPF.

What are healthier alternatives to Plain Bagels?

Nomi has reviewed similar products that are not ultra-processed, including plain bagel by Cohen's. See the healthier alternatives above for details.

What does "ultra-processed" (UPF) mean?

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are industrial formulations made with ingredients and additives you wouldn't find in a home kitchen — such as emulsifiers, artificial flavourings, colourings and modified starches. The classification is based on the NOVA system used by researchers and dietitians worldwide.

How can I check whether other foods are ultra-processed?

Scan any barcode — or photograph the ingredients label — with the free Nomi app for iOS and Android. You'll get an instant ultra-processed verdict with every ingredient explained in plain English.

Product information comes from public databases and Nomi's own analysis, and may contain errors. Always check the packaging. Ultra-processed classification is based on the NOVA food processing system.