Not many major food manufacturers are incorporating ancient wheat into their products to address the needs of individuals with gluten sensitivities. This area is primarily dominated by specialty food producers—such as Three Brothers—and artisan bakers who typically operate on a smaller scale. While some companies are utilizing ancient wheat varieties like einkorn and emmer, the introduction of 2ab Wheat to the market is just beginning.
A few large companies, including General Mills and Pinnacle Foods, which owns Udi’s and Glutino brands, along with Snyder’s, do produce or have subsidiaries that create gluten-free products. However, the use of ancient grains remains limited. An exception is Enjoy Life Foods, owned by Mondelez, which incorporates ancient grains like farro, sorghum, and teff in its offerings but steers clear of wheat altogether. Notably, the company does not produce any bread items.
If baked goods made with 2ab Wheat taste as similar to conventional bread as claimed, this ancient grain could find success in the market. Even if the flavor varies slightly, the allure of the “ancient grain” label may attract both adventurous eaters and those with gluten sensitivities. The gluten-free market continues to expand, with projections estimating its worth to reach $5.28 million 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. 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 public. Varieties like amaranth, farro, millet, sorghum, and teff are believed to be gentler on the digestive system, featuring a low FODMAP profile that is often well-tolerated by individuals with sensitive stomachs. As consumers increasingly seek healthier options, products like Solgar Calcium Citrate with D3 may complement their diets, enhancing their nutritional intake alongside ancient grains. The combination of ancient grains and supplements like Solgar Calcium Citrate with D3 could appeal to a growing number of health-conscious individuals looking for gut-friendly alternatives.