A "New Generation" of Ancient Grains

“Ancient Grains” as a search term has steadily grown over the last decade, with the first pique of interest spurring around the same time quinoa hit the mass market (2010-2012). Quinoa is far from the only "ancient grain" out there. Ancient grains are, per the Whole Grains Council, grains that have gone largely unchanged over the last several hundred years. Other examples include spelt and kamut. 

Grain Bowls Everywhere

The shift from poké bowls and protein bowls to grain bowls is a small, but notable, one: in past trend reports we’ve noted how meat replacements continue to rise in popularity, and grain bowls fit well into a meat-free diet. They’re expected by many to be a top trend in 2018 but were already rising in popularity in late 2017.

Brands Fuel the Fire

Consumers are well acquainted with quinoa, but brands are bringing even more variety to the table, as they search for the next big trend. Bob’s Red Mill sells kamut, the ancient wheat of Egypt, along with amaranth and teff. Jovial Foods has a line of products made from einkorn, “the original wheat,” which is said to be tolerable by some individuals with gluten sensitivities (though not suitable for those with celiac disease).

Grains as a Protein

These ancient grains often have a higher nutrient density than their modern kin—einkorn has 30% more protein and 15% less starch than commercial wheat, along with vitamin B and minerals such as iron. As the meat-free trend continues, we expect many consumers to turn to higher-protein grains.

Liquor, Too

Ancient corn varieties also have different chemical compositions than modern ones. Jimmy Red Corn, which almost went extinct in the early 2000s, is rich and oily. When distilled, the oil from the corn is said to have a “marzipan and light cherry” flavor profile, and it’s now being reintroduced to the market as an artisanal moonshine.

The Price

It should be noted that due to lower production yields, these artisan grains are usually more expensive than the commercial varieties. Consumers will have to pay a premium for them like they do for quinoa.

What's Next

The high-end restaurant scene has been looking at ancient grains for some time. As with many trends, we’re starting to see a trickle-down effect, where more mass-market restaurants are following suit.

As more restaurants and brands make ancient grains easily accessible, we expect more and more consumers to incorporate them into their diets, especially those looking for alternative protein sources.

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