Baked goods

Bagels, whole grain white

FDC 174092piece bagel 1 serving (43 g)

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Density 49 · +9 vs Baked goods median

Whole grain white bagels come in at 49 of 100 on the density scale, a Fair-band showing that still lands rank 13 of 60 among baked goods, well above the category's median score of 40. The chewy dough delivers an excellent 23% DV of iron per serving alongside good showings of protein (19% DV) and dietary fiber (17% DV), figures more typical of a whole-grain loaf than a bread-aisle bagel.

Most people know this as a toasting bagel, sliced and topped with something savory or sweet rather than eaten plain; a single 43-gram piece pairs well with eggs or a schmear for a more balanced plate. At 255 calories per 100 grams it's calorie-dense for its size, so portion size matters more than any single nutrient here.

See how this score is calculated, build a plate around bagels, or compare it with another food.

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Fig. 1 · Macronutrient composition
Protein 9.3 g · 15%Carb 54.5 g · 85%Fat 0 g · 0%

Percent of calories derived by NutriVerdict from USDA grams

Nutrition facts

NutrientAmount% DV
Calories255 kcal13%
Total fat0 g0%
Saturated fat0 g0%
Cholesterol0 mg0%
Sodium372 mg16%
Carbohydrate55 g20%
Dietary fiber4.7 g17%
Sugars9.3 g
Protein9.3 g19%
Potassium176 mg4%
Calcium93 mg7%
Iron4.2 mg23%
Magnesium41 mg10%
Vitamin C0 mg0%
Vitamin A0 µg0%
Vitamin E0.24 mg2%

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

FDC 174092

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

What it is rich in

Nutrients supplying at least 10% of the Daily Value per 100 grams. 20% or more is an excellent source.

Iron23% DV
Protein19% DV
Dietary fiber17% DV
Magnesium10% DV

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Versus the baked goods median

Nutrient density49 vs 40 median
Protein / 100 g9.3 vs 8.6 median
Fiber / 100 g4.7 vs 3.4 median
Sodium / 100 g372 vs 447 median

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

More nutrient-dense swaps

Foods in the same category that score higher on nutrient density.

Bread, pumpernickelDensity 51 vs 49Rolls, pumpernickelDensity 51 vs 49Bagels, multigrainDensity 54 vs 49

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

In the kitchen and how to use it

Whole grain white bagels are boiled briefly then baked, giving them the dense, chewy crumb and glossy crust that separates a real bagel from a bread roll shaped like one. Made from whole grain white wheat flour rather than standard whole wheat, they carry a milder, less bran-forward flavor while keeping the grain intact. Sliced and toasted, they hold up to cream cheese, lox, nut butter or a fried egg without going soggy, and their sturdy texture makes them a good vehicle for a hearty breakfast sandwich.

A single bagel here is a 43 g serving, and the bread itself runs about 255 calories per 100 g, with 9.3 g protein and 4.7 g fiber per 100 g, fiber landing at 17% DV. Look for bagels sold same-day at a bakery counter for the chewiest texture; once home, they stale quickly at room temperature but freeze well sliced, ready to go straight into a toaster. With 372 mg sodium per 100 g and iron at 23% DV, its top nutrient, a whole grain white bagel works well as the base of a substantial breakfast paired with a protein topping like eggs or smoked fish.

Frequently asked questions about bagels

How many calories are in a whole grain white bagel?

About 255 calories per 100 g, which works out to roughly 110 calories for a 43 g bagel.

Is a whole grain white bagel a good source of iron?

Yes, it provides about 23% of the Daily Value for iron per 100 g, the standout nutrient in its profile.

How should bagels be stored?

They are best eaten the day they are baked, but slice and freeze extras so they can go straight into the toaster later.

View the USDA source record