Bakery

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Bakery-2

Village bakehouse in Geyerbad (2019)

Portuguese-style egg tart

Carquinyolis d'Arenys 2 (cropped)

Bakery is a food establishment that produces and sells flour-based food baked in an oven such as bread, cookies, cakes, pastries, and pies. Some retail bakeries are also cafés, serving coffee and tea to customers who wish to consume the baked goods on the premises. Traditionally, bakeries were owned by individual bakers who created unique recipes and served the local community. However, with the rise of industrial production, many bakery goods are now mass-produced in large factories.

History

The history of baking dates back to ancient times. The earliest evidence of baking occurred when humans took wild grass grains, soaked them in water, and mixed everything together, mashing it into a kind of broth-like paste. The paste was cooked by pouring it onto a flat, hot rock, resulting in a bread-like substance. Since then, baking has evolved with the invention of the oven and the discovery of fermentation to make dough rise. The art of baking was developed early during the Roman Empire. It was a highly respected profession, with Roman bakers being free citizens and wealthy. Bread baking began to become a staple in Europe during the Middle Ages, leading to the establishment of guilds for bakers, some of which still exist today.

Types of Bakeries

Bakeries typically fall into one of two categories: retail and wholesale.

• Retail Bakeries operate within a storefront, selling baked goods directly to consumers. This category includes specialty shops like pastry shops, bagel shops, and donut shops, as well as general bakeries that offer a wide range of products.
• Wholesale Bakeries supply their products to businesses such as restaurants, grocery stores, and cafeterias. These bakeries are larger and produce a higher volume of goods, often employing automated machinery for mass production.

Bakery Products

The range of products offered by bakeries is vast and includes:

• Breads - including a variety of types such as whole wheat, rye, sourdough, and multigrain.
• Pastries - such as croissants, danishes, and puff pastries.
• Cakes - from simple pound cakes to elaborate wedding cakes.
• Cookies - including both soft and crispy varieties.
• Pies - both sweet and savory options like apple pie and meat pie.

Baking Techniques and Equipment

Baking is a precise science that requires knowledge of chemistry and physics to achieve the desired results. Key techniques in baking include mixing, fermentation, proofing, and temperature control. Essential equipment in a bakery includes ovens, mixers, dough proofers, and baking pans.

Health and Nutrition

Bakery products can vary widely in their nutritional content. While bread and other baked goods can be an important source of carbohydrates and energy, concerns have been raised about high levels of sugar, fat, and calories in some bakery products. Whole grain and artisan breads are often promoted as healthier options.

Regulations and Food Safety

Bakeries, like all food service establishments, are subject to food safety regulations which vary by jurisdiction. These regulations are designed to ensure that food products are produced in a clean environment and are safe for consumption. Common standards include regular health inspections and adherence to food handling practices.