While the vibrant, strong sunflower is recognized worldwide for its beauty, it is also an important source of food. Sunflower is an important agricultural crop choice for US producers in the northern plains of the Dakotas to the panhandle of Texas. Sunflower kernel is the result of the processor mechanically removing the hull. The resulting kernel is now in a convenient form to be used raw, roasted for snacking, or used as an ingredient. Due to their low moisture content, kernels function like most other nuts and seeds and can be a cost-effective substitute in product formulations.
Sunflower kernels are rich in healthy fats, protein, fibre, minerals, vitamin E, and phytochemicals - all important to the nutritional quality of our diet. They are ideal for a variety of foods including bakery products, granola, snack bars, salad toppings and plant-based foods. For more information visit Sunflower Kernel Supplier List.
Food innovators seek healthy option for nut alternatives
Over 3 million Canadians suffer from a food allergy and according to Health Canada nut allergies are amongst the topmost prevalent allergies. Canadian consumers are constantly searching for nut-free products. This is the perfect time for food manufacturers to consider switching to sunflower kernels, a healthy nut alternative for snack foods, plant-based products, or baked-goods.
Due to their low moisture content, USA grown sunflower kernels function like most other nuts and seeds and can be a cost-effective substitute in product formulations. They are rich in healthy fats, protein, fibre, minerals, vitamin E and phytochemicals - all important to the nutritional quality of a balanced diet. In addition to the health benefits, sunflower kernels add a pleasant crunch to foods and have a neutral flavour profile.
The Importance of Texture in Baked Goods Goes Beyond Taste
Studies have shown that texture in food plays a very important role in determining freshness. The crisp of a potato chip or the snap of a carrot indicate freshness and therefore for the average consumer, crunch can signal a perception of freshly made. The texture of baked goods is determined by the ingredients, and baking methods and the amount of flour, sugar, and fat can influence the texture of the final product. USA grown sunflower kernels provide additional texture to product formulations including granola, snack bars, salad toppings, and plant-based foods. They provide a pleasant crunch, are an excellent nut alternative and are mild in flavour which works harmoniously with other taste profiles.
Additionally, sunflower kernels are rich in healthy fats, protein, fibre, minerals, vitamin E and phytochemicals - all important for the nutritional quality of your products.
Canadians Want Sustainable Ingredients in their Food products.
In today’s world, sustainability has become a crucial component of decision making when purchasing food products. In fact, 47% Canadians have claimed that they are actively looking for food products that have minimal impact on the environment1. Canadians are also looking for more transparency with ingredients in the food products they purchase. So, when looking for sustainable, non-GMO, healthy ingredients, you should consider sunflower kernels for all your product formulations.
USA grown sunflower kernels are the perfect example of a sustainable product that can be used in snack bars, bakery products, plant-based foods, and salad toppings. Sunflower crops have deep tap roots that enrich and rejuvenate the soil. Moreover, they require much less water than other crops and reduce soil erosion which helps reduce the emission of greenhouse gases.
1 “Canadian Centre for Food Integrity, 2020 Public Trust Research, conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs with 2,903 Canadians, from July 28 to August 27, 2020.”
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