Why are there black bits in the flour when you make bread a machine?

Those "black bits" in your bread machine flour are most likely wheat bran. Here's why they appear and why they're nothing to worry about:

* What is wheat bran? Wheat bran is the outer layer of the wheat kernel. It's a good source of fiber and nutrients.

* Why is it in bread flour? Some brands of bread flour contain a small amount of wheat bran for added nutrition and flavor. It's not necessarily a flaw, but rather an intentional ingredient.

* Why does it appear as "black bits"? The bran has a darker color than the rest of the flour, and it's often more coarse in texture, making it appear as small black specks.

Here's why you don't need to worry about it:

* It's safe to eat. Wheat bran is a natural part of wheat and poses no health risks.

* It doesn't affect the taste. The amount of bran in bread flour is typically small enough that it won't significantly affect the flavor of your bread.

* It adds nutritional value. Wheat bran is a good source of fiber, which is beneficial for digestion.

If you're concerned about the black bits:

* Check the ingredient list of your flour. If it contains wheat bran, it's likely the cause.

* Consider switching to a different brand of flour. Some brands of bread flour are specifically designed to be "bleached" or "refined," meaning they have less bran and a lighter color.

* Experiment with adding your own bran. If you like the nutritional benefits of bran, you can add your own to your bread dough. Just be sure to use a small amount, as too much can make your bread dense and dry.

Ultimately, those black bits are just a sign of a slightly less processed and more nutritious flour. You can enjoy your bread without worry!