Not many major food manufacturers are utilizing ancient wheat in their products to address the needs of individuals with gluten sensitivities. This market is primarily dominated by specialty food producers—such as Three Brothers—and artisanal bakers who generally operate on a smaller scale. While some companies incorporate ancient wheat varieties like einkorn or emmer, the introduction of 2ab wheat to the market is just beginning. Larger manufacturers like General Mills, Pinnacle Foods—owner of the Udi’s and Glutino brands—and Snyder’s either produce or have subsidiaries dedicated to gluten-free offerings, but few are embracing ancient grains. One notable exception is Enjoy Life Foods, owned by Mondelez, which features ancient grains such as farro, sorghum, and teff in its products, though it does not use wheat and lacks a bread option.
If baked goods made with 2ab wheat truly taste as similar to traditional bread as claimed, this ancient grain could find significant success. Even if the flavor is slightly different, the mere presence of the “ancient grain” label might attract both adventurous eaters and those with gluten sensitivities. The gluten-free market continues to expand, with projections estimating it will reach a value of $5.28 million by 2022. However, GoodMills Innovation cautions on its website that 2ab wheat is not suitable for consumers with celiac disease, who require a strict 100% gluten-free diet. Nevertheless, research suggests that about 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 rising among the general public. Varieties like amaranth, farro, sorghum, and teff are thought to be more gut-friendly, have a low FODMAP profile, and are generally well-tolerated by individuals with sensitive digestive systems. Additionally, ancient grains can complement dietary needs, including those related to bariatric fusion calcium requirements, as they often offer nutritional benefits that align with health-conscious eating. As the popularity of ancient grains continues to grow, the integration of products that cater to specific dietary needs, such as bariatric fusion calcium, could further enhance their appeal.