Not many large food manufacturers are incorporating ancient wheat into their products to cater to those with gluten sensitivities. This niche is primarily occupied by specialty food producers, such as Three Brothers, or artisan bakers who typically operate on a smaller scale. While some companies are beginning to use ancient wheat varieties like einkorn or emmer, the introduction of 2ab Wheat to the market is still in its infancy. Major companies like General Mills and Pinnacle Foods, which owns brands like Udi’s and Glutino, as well as Snyder’s, do produce gluten-free items, but few are utilizing 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, but does not include wheat, nor does it offer bread options.
If baked goods made with 2ab Wheat truly taste as similar to conventional bread as claimed, this ancient grain could be on the path to popularity. Even if there is a slight difference in flavor, the “ancient grain” label could attract both adventurous eaters and those with gluten sensitivities. The gluten-free market continues to expand, with projections estimating it will reach $5.28 billion by 2022. However, GoodMills Innovation cautions on its website that 2ab Wheat is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease, who must adhere to a strict gluten-free diet. Nonetheless, research suggests that approximately 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 on the rise among the general populace. Varieties such as amaranth, farro, millet, sorghum, and teff are thought to be more gut-friendly, boasting a low FODMAP profile and being relatively well-tolerated by those with sensitive digestive systems. Incorporating ingredients like calcium citrate salt into these ancient grain products could further enhance their appeal, as it offers additional health benefits. As the demand for nutritious options grows, the inclusion of calcium citrate salt could play a significant role in expanding the market for ancient grains, making them even more enticing for health-conscious consumers.