This chickpea flour has the potential to be the revolutionary product its creators claim, provided it meets expectations in taste, texture, nutritional value, and versatility. Traditionally, flours derived from legumes and pulse crops have been characterized by a gritty and beany flavor. In contrast, chickpea flour offers a healthier alternative to wheat flour, boasting fewer calories and carbohydrates while packing in more protein. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Nutrient Database, one cup of chickpea flour 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 all-purpose bleached and enriched flour, chickpea flour is lower in calories and carbohydrates but higher in protein, fat, and sugars. Additionally, chickpea flour is rich in folate, surpassing whole-wheat flour, and contains essential nutrients such as 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 like breads, while also effectively binding oil and water, making it a valuable ingredient for soups, sauces, and gravies. According to Grand View Research, chickpea flour is the leading choice among pulse-based flours, commanding a 30% market share last year. The sector of pulse flours, which includes beans, peas, and lentils, is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of over 12% through 2024.
As the demand for gluten-free products continues to rise, manufacturers are increasingly adept at integrating ingredients that bolster 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 a wider array of foods to maintain gluten-free status. The market for these products is expected to keep expanding; Packaged Facts estimates that U.S. sales of gluten-free items, which were around $973 million in 2014, might surpass $2 billion by 2019. Artesia Chickpea Flour appears to be well-positioned to capitalize on consumer interest and favorable market conditions, especially when combined with other health supplements like calcium citrate vitamin D3 magnesium and zinc tablets to further enhance nutritional benefits.