National Loaf facts for kids

The National Loaf was a special type of bread made in Britain during World War II. It was introduced in 1942 when food was scarce. This bread was made from wholemeal flour. It also had extra calcium and vitamins added to it.

The Federation of Bakers, a group of bread makers, created this loaf. It was similar to the brown bread we eat today. The National Loaf was used to help with shortages of white flour during the war. It was no longer made after October 1956.

Why the National Loaf Was Important

During World War II, Britain faced many challenges. Getting enough food was a big one. Ships bringing supplies to Britain were often attacked. This meant less space for food. The government needed smart ways to feed everyone.

Saving Space and Wheat

The National Loaf helped save space on ships. It used wholemeal flour, which meant more of the wheat grain was used. This was better than making white flour, which wasted parts of the grain. Using wholemeal flour also helped make sure people got enough nutrients.

Government's Role

The British government strongly supported the National Loaf. They wanted people to eat it instead of white bread. This was because it was more efficient. It also helped control how much bread people ate. This was important for managing food supplies.

What the National Loaf Was Like

The National Loaf was quite different from the bread we usually eat. It was often described as grey and a bit mushy. Many people found it unappetising. In fact, only about one in seven people preferred it over white bread. But white bread was not available during the war. So, people had to eat the National Loaf.

Famous Visitor's Experience

Even important visitors ate the National Loaf. In 1942, Eleanor Roosevelt, the First Lady of the United States, visited Buckingham Palace. She wrote about her experience. She noted that even though they ate on fancy gold and silver plates, their bread was the same "war bread" everyone else had. This shows how widespread its use was.