The first time you buy flour in a German supermarket, seeing labels like Type 405, Type 550, and Type 1050 can be confusing. After some research and baking experiments, here’s a clear breakdown of what they mean and how they correspond to Chinese flour types.
What the German Type Number Means
The Type number indicates the ash content (milligrams of minerals per 100 grams of dry flour), not directly the protein content, but the two are closely related:
- Lower Type number → more refined → whiter color → less bran → typically lower protein
- Higher Type number → more bran retained → darker color → higher protein and dietary fiber
Common Type Comparison Table
| German Type | Characteristics | Approximate Chinese Equivalent | Best Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| 405 | Most refined, whitest | Low-gluten / cake flour | Cakes, cookies, muffins, puff pastry |
| 550 | Medium refinement, all-purpose | Medium-gluten flour | Dumpling wrappers, scallion pancakes, steamed buns, regular bread |
| 812 | Higher protein content | High-gluten flour | Sandwich bread, bagels, artisan bread |
| 1050 | Some bran retained | Whole wheat medium-gluten | Multigrain bread, base for German rye bread |
| 1700 / Vollkornmehl | Whole grain, full bran | Whole wheat flour | Whole wheat bread |
Practical Substitution Tips
- If a Chinese recipe calls for “low-gluten flour” → buy Type 405
- If it calls for “medium-gluten flour” → buy Type 550 (works well for dumpling wrappers and scallion pancakes)
- For chewy Chinese-style bread → use Type 812, or add about 10% wheat gluten (Weizenkleber, available at health food stores) to Type 550
Dinkelmehl (Spelt Flour)
German supermarkets also commonly sell Dinkelmehl (spelt flour), graded similarly (e.g., Type 630, 812). It can generally substitute regular wheat flour, but it absorbs more liquid (the dough will be stiffer with the same amount of liquid). When using it for the first time, add 5-10% more liquid to adjust. It has a slightly nutty flavor that adds complexity to baked goods.
Storage
German flour usually comes in paper bags. After opening, transfer it to an airtight container (like a plastic storage jar with a lid) and keep it in a cool, dry place. Since indoor air in Germany is relatively dry, you won’t have moisture issues if you use it within the expiration date.
