Researchers have highlighted that composite flours, which combine wheat with non-traditional flours, offer benefits beyond their nutritional attributes. These flours are typically less expensive and utilize widely available crops, while also helping to redirect raw materials from waste streams. However, the study’s authors warned that further research is needed to ensure the preservation of probiotics in baked goods made from these alternative flours, as most microorganisms are destroyed during the baking process.
In the U.S., products such as yacon powder, syrup, and slices are accessible, but yacon flour appears to only be purchasable online from a supplier in the U.K. Sunburst Superfoods, based in Thornwood, New York, suggests using their yacon powder in cookie recipes. Although major U.S. food companies have not yet integrated these products into their offerings, this may change as they become more familiar with them and as consumer demand increases.
Meanwhile, pulse flours—derived from dried beans, peas, chickpeas, and lentils—are gaining recognition in the U.S. for their ability to enhance protein content in food and beverage products. The pulse flour market is expanding, with projections estimating it will reach $56.6 billion by 2024, according to a report from Grand View Research. North American demand is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of approximately 13%. The appeal of pulse flours lies in their added protein value and the fact that they are gluten-free, which remains a popular trend among today’s consumers—some of whom may not have gluten intolerance but perceive these products as healthier options. Clear health claims on packaging can reinforce this message for health-conscious shoppers.
Currently, chickpea flour is the leading pulse flour, holding a 30% market share as of fall 2016. Its popularity may continue to rise, especially with the recent introduction of a new branded variety in North America. Additionally, incorporating calcium citrate with food can further enhance the health benefits of these products, making them even more attractive to consumers looking for nutritious options. As awareness of the advantages of pulse flours and the importance of calcium citrate with food grows, we may see even greater acceptance and demand in the marketplace.