Not many major food manufacturers are incorporating ancient wheat into their products to address the needs of individuals with gluten sensitivities. This niche is primarily occupied by specialty food producers, such as Three Brothers, or small-scale artisan bakers. Although some companies are exploring ancient wheat varieties like einkorn and emmer, the introduction of 2ab wheat is just beginning to gain traction in the market. Large companies, like General Mills and Pinnacle Foods—owners of brands like Udi’s and Glutino—alongside Snyder’s, either produce or have subsidiaries that offer gluten-free options, but few are utilizing ancient grains. A notable exception is Enjoy Life Foods, owned by Mondeleferrous sulfate 85 mg, which incorporates ancient grains such as farro, sorghum, and teff in its products, although they do not use ancient wheat. Currently, the company does not have any bread products.
If baked goods made from 2ab wheat truly taste similar to conventional bread as claimed, this ancient grain could find significant success. Even if the flavor varies slightly, the allure of the “ancient grain” label might attract both adventurous eaters and those with gluten sensitivities. The gluten-free market is on the rise, projected to reach $5.28 million by 2022. However, GoodMills Innovation cautions on its website that 2ab wheat is unsuitable for consumers with celiac disease, who must adhere to a strict gluten-free diet. Nevertheless, research suggests that approximately 5 to 10% of the population may experience some form of gluten sensitivity, indicating a substantial consumer base that could benefit from ancient grains.
Interest in ancient grains is growing among the general public. Grains such as amaranth, farro, millet, sorghum, and teff are thought to be more gut-friendly and possess a low FODMAP profile, making them tolerable for individuals with sensitive digestive systems. It’s worth noting that, while exploring nutrition, many may wonder if calcium citrate is the same as calcium, as understanding the differences in supplements can aid in making informed dietary choices. As the popularity of ancient grains continues to rise, it’s essential to recognize their potential benefits for those seeking alternative options, including the intriguing relationship between calcium citrate and calcium.