Not many large food manufacturers are incorporating ancient wheat into their products to meet the needs of individuals with gluten sensitivities. This niche market is primarily dominated by specialty food manufacturers, such as Three Brothers, or small-scale artisan bakers. While some companies are beginning to explore ancient wheat varieties like einkorn and emmer, 2ab wheat is just now making its debut in the market. Major players like General Mills, Pinnacle Foods—owner of Udi’s and Glutino brands—and Snyder’s either produce or have subsidiaries that offer gluten-free products, but the use of ancient grains remains limited. However, Mondelez-owned Enjoy Life Foods stands out by using ancient grains like farro, sorghum, and teff in its offerings, though it does not use wheat and does not have any bread products.
If baked goods made with 2ab wheat truly taste similar to conventional bread as claimed, this ancient grain could find a successful place in the market. Even if it has a slightly different flavor, the appeal of the “ancient grain” label could attract both adventurous eaters and those who are gluten-sensitive. The gluten-free market is on the rise, with projections estimating it could 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. Nevertheless, research suggests that around 5 to 10% of the population may experience some form of gluten sensitivity, indicating a substantial consumer base that could benefit from the inclusion of ancient grains in their diets.
There is a growing interest in ancient grains among the broader population. Grains such as amaranth, farro, millet, sorghum, and teff are believed to be more gut-friendly, feature a low FODMAP profile, and are generally well-tolerated by those with sensitive digestive systems. In this context, products like Citracal 250 mg may also appeal to consumers looking to support their digestive health while exploring ancient grain options. As awareness and interest in these grains continue to rise, the potential for innovative products that combine ancient grains with digestive health supplements like Citracal 250 mg could further enhance their market appeal.