The latest market research from Packaged Facts indicates that whole grains’ nutritional value has added a new dynamic to an otherwise mature U.S. bread market, providing marketers with a new opportunity to bounce back from the doldrums of the low-carb craze and reinvigorate their products. And it’s paying off-sales have reversed a previous downward slide and increased over 1% in 2005 to $13.7 billion, according to Packaged Facts newest report, “Bread Products in the U.S.”

Based on expectations that consumers will remain mindful of the health benefits of dietary fiber and whole grains, Packaged Facts projects that the U.S. bread market should see a continuous growth trend and reach over $14 billion by 2010.

According to this report, 2006 sales will reach $13.8 billion, bolstered in part by the success of the large number of new whole grain products in 2005. Packaged Facts claims virtually every top marketer introduced health-conscious bread in 2005, with 33 of 80 new products containing whole wheat. Many products mimicked the taste and texture of classic white bread, making them accessible to the widest possible audience, including kids, who were targeted with six new nutrition- focused breads, including extra fiber, omega 3 fatty acids, and calcium.

“Now that low-carb is out, good carbs are hot and ‘functional’ breads with added nutritional benefits are becoming hot sellers,” notes Don Montuori, the publisher of Packaged Facts. “Messaging, such as ‘No Trans Fat,’ ‘Organic,’ and ‘Whole Grain,’ as well as the introduction of high-end artisan breads and new blended flavors, are hitting home runs with consumers looking to feed their carb cravings with fare that is more upscale and nutritionally sound than everyday white bread.”

Providing a comprehensive look at the market for fresh breads, buns/croissants/rolls, and bagels/bialys, Bread Products in the U.S. examines new product trends and innovations, offers competitive profiles of industry leaders, tracks and forecasts sales, and looks at consumer trends and behaviors surrounding bread products.