Specialty Flours
Ancient Grains...for Nutrition with Flavor
Rice and wheat, move over. Corn, step aside. Make room for amaranth, quinoa, spelt, and the ancient grains of yesteryear. After centuries of obscurity, these wholesome grains are being rediscovered by health-conscious consumers. Grown mainly in developing countries, these grains pack a nutritious punch that combines high levels of protein, minerals, and dietary fiber.There are several ancient grains to choose from, each with their own distinctive flavor.
Amaranth Flour – The Amaranth seed has a rich and colorful history. Amaranthus species were grown as the principle grain crop by the Aztecs 7,000 years ago. Sourced from Peru and Argentina, this flavorful grain is available in whole seed and flour.
Key nutritional aspects:
- 5X the dietary fiber as wheat flour
- Essential amino acids Lysine & Methionine
- 2X the calcium in milk.
- Gluten Free
Millet Flour – Millet is one of the oldest foods known to humans and possibly the first cereal grain to be used for domestic purposes. Millet flour has been commonly used for hundreds of years to make flat breads and is a good substitute for wheat four as it is Gluten-Free.
Key nutritional aspects (Per 100g):
- 11g of Protein
- 8.5g of Fiber
- Gluten Free
Sesame Flour – Sesame Flour, which is produced from partially de-fatted sesame seeds, can be used as a partial replacement for wheat flour. In addition to its high protein level, sesame flour contains Linoleic acid, a good amino acid composition and natural antioxidants which can prolong shelf life.
Key nutritional aspects (Per 100g):
- 38g of Protein
- 11g of Fiber
- 18g of Carbohydrates
Spelt Flour – Referenced as one of the original 7 grains in the Bible, the existence of Spelt dates back 9,000 years to Mesopotamia. Many of it’s benefits come from the fact that spelt offers a broader spectrum of nutrients than it’s more inbred cousins in the wheat family.
Key nutritional aspects:
- 12% more protein than wheat
- 118% of daily requirement for vitamin B2
- Good source of Thiamin and Niacin
- Usually grown without use of pesticides