Among the myriad challenges dieting poses, feeling satisfied by reduced-calorie meals nears the top for most people trying to lose weight. Studies abound linking dietary fiber and whole grain content with satiety, as do bakery and snack products capitalizing on those results.

Two such products come from Aunt Millie's Bakeries, Fort Wayne, IN. With an eye toward satisfying consumer demand for low-calorie versions of high-quality buns, the company introduced reduced-calorie, whole grain hamburger and hot dog buns this month under its Hearth brand.

With packages boasting "No high-fructose corn syrup" and "Excellent source of fiber," the buns tout the Whole Grains Council stamp. The hamburger buns contain 110 Cal each while the hot dog buns are 80 Cal each.

"There are light buns on the market, but this is the first time a full-size bun may be found with the size and quality of Aunt Millie’s Hearth Buns," said Melissa Dunning, marketing director, Aunt Millie's Bakeries. "It's not a little wimpy diet bun; it's a full-size, fluffy, attractive bun."

At 4 in., the buns are designed to satisfy the hunger of anyone who is cutting calories. The company also recognizes that most dieters are interested in other health attributes.

"Whole grain is a top seller. It is a natural fit for a reduced-calorie item," Ms. Dunning said. "Whole grain and fiber are always the No. 1 and 2 health attributes people are looking for when they care about healthy attributes in baked goods."

Available throughout the Midwest starting this month, both bun styles retail in an 8-count package for $3.29.

"Our Hearth Whole Grain buns are one of the most popular items in the Hearth line," Ms. Dunning said. "We're taking that large size bun, still whole grain, and making it a reduced-calorie item. We think that all those things are a recipe for success."