The rundown: Wheat covers more of the earth than any other crop. It’s a resilient crop, growing in the dry and cold climates where rice and corn cannot. Wheat is the leading source of vegetable protein for humans worldwide. Wheat is typically dried and pulverised to make flour. This flour is used to make bread, crackers, pasta, breakfast cereals, and pastries. Its nutritional value is higher, however, when it is consumed whole. Approximately 15% of the world’s calorie intake comes from wheat.
Wheat Origin Story
The Middle East is where wheat originates, as it was first grown in the Ancient Mesopotamian region near present-day Iraq. Researchers believe this was the first domesticated crop, prompting the spread of agriculture, and resulting in rapid increases in human population. The US, China, Russia, India, and France are the largest producers of wheat in the world.
Everywhere, Lots of Wheat
Most flour is made directly from the wheat grain, this includes white, bread, bran or brown flour. Breads (unless labeled stating otherwise) will contain wheat, this includes freshly baked bread at your local bakery. Baked goods like cakes, cookies, pastries or other baked goods all contain wheat. Pasta, unless it states that it is made from rice or quinoa, is also made from wheat flour. Most cereals are also made from wheat. Frozen or canned vegetables prepared in a sauce, as well as creamed vegetables that contain stabilisers also contain wheat.Deserts such as ice cream, ice cream cones, sherbet, icings, meringues and puddings all contain wheat.
What is your go-to wheat addiction, pasta, breads, or deserts?
