Crouton

Croutons are small pieces of fried or baked bread, typically cut into cubes. They are often seasoned with herbs, spices, or cheese before being toasted or fried until crisp. Croutons are commonly made from stale bread to reduce food waste.

Croutons are primarily used to add texture and flavour to dishes, particularly soups and salads. Their crispness provides a contrasting element to softer ingredients. They are a popular addition to ready-to-eat meals like Caesar salad and instant soup mixes.

Croutons are a foodstuff, not a food additive, and are not listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. Their health implications are primarily related to their nutritional content as a bread product, including carbohydrates and potentially added fats and salt from seasonings. Consumption of large quantities may contribute to overall calorie intake. Evidence does not suggest specific health concerns at typical consumption levels.