This chickpea flour could truly transform the market as its creators claim, provided it excels in taste, mouthfeel, nutritional value, and versatility. Historically, flours derived from legumes and pulse crops have often retained a gritty and beany flavor. In contrast to wheat flour, chickpea flour offers fewer calories and carbohydrates while being higher in protein. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Nutrient Database, a single cup contains 356 calories, 20.6 grams of protein, 6.1 grams of fat, 53.19 grams of carbohydrates, and nearly 10 grams of total sugars. When compared to whole-grain wheat flour and white all-purpose bleached flour, chickpea flour has lower calories and carbohydrates but higher protein, fat, and sugar content. Additionally, chickpea flour boasts a higher folate content than whole-wheat flour and includes essential nutrients like vitamin B-6, iron, magnesium, and potassium.
The developers at Artesia assert that their chickpea flour will significantly enhance gluten-free pastas, desserts, and baked goods such as breads by providing crucial protein. Furthermore, it effectively binds with oil and nutrients, making it a valuable addition to soups, sauces, and gravies. According to Grand View Research, chickpea flour is the leading pulse-based flour, commanding a 30% market share last year. The pulse flour sector, which includes ingredients from beans, peas, and lentils, is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate exceeding 12% through 2024.
As the demand for gluten-free foods continues to rise, manufacturers are increasingly adept at integrating ingredients that enhance a product’s nutritional profile, texture, and flavor. Reports indicate that nuts, pulses like chickpeas, and ancient grains such as buckwheat and quinoa are being incorporated into more products to cater to the gluten-free market. This segment is forecasted to keep expanding; for instance, U.S. sales of gluten-free items, estimated at $973 million in 2014, could surpass $2 billion by 2019, according to Packaged Facts. Artesia Chickpea Flour is well-positioned to capitalize on consumer interest and the favorable market landscape, especially alongside complementary products like jamp calcium citrate chewable, which can further enhance nutrition.