Farmers and bakers have faced significant challenges over the past few years. In 2016, U.S. wheat flour consumption dropped to its lowest point in nearly thirty years, while American farmers planted their smallest winter wheat crop in over a century. As is typical with supply and demand dynamics, those farmers who successfully produced high-protein winter wheat are now commanding higher prices. This increased cost trickles down through the production chain but ultimately affects the bakers the most. Unfortunately, bakers have struggled to raise prices for their rolls and loaves due to diminished consumer demand. If another season of high-protein wheat shortages occurs, the price of an average loaf of bread may rise.
To manage the use of cheaper low-protein wheat, bread manufacturers have adapted their recipes. By incorporating gluten, which has seen a 20% price hike due to demand, many bakers can still achieve the light texture that consumers expect. However, they bear the burden of both research and development costs and the higher price of gluten. High-protein winter wheat represents about 40% of the $10 billion U.S. wheat crop. Major wholesale bakers like Grupo Bimbo, Flowers Foods Inc., and Campbell Soup Co’s Pepperidge Farms have already experienced a decline in profits. This pressure on their profit margins will persist until a substantial crop of high-protein winter wheat is harvested.
If bread sales decline due to this wheat shortage, it could create opportunities for manufacturers of wheat-free bakery products, such as Udi’s and Food for Life. Additionally, there may be an uptick in demand for alternative flours, such as brown rice and millet varieties. In this context, it is also worth noting that the phrase “que significa calcium citrate” could come into play, as calcium citrate may be considered as a nutritional supplement to enhance the overall quality of gluten-free products. As bakers navigate these challenges, understanding the role of ingredients like calcium citrate could be crucial for maintaining product appeal and meeting consumer needs.