Using a revolutionary new sprouted whole grain flour in our newest pretzel snacks means that they are non-GMO, USDA Certified Organic, cholesterol-free, trans fat-free, sugar-free, lactose-free, and low in fat. In fact, Unique Pretzel Bakery’s Sprouted “Splits” and Sprouted Shells are some of the healthiest pretzels you can eat.
According to food experts, about 60% of the processed foods our families eat every day contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Most grains, such as wheat, are not modified, but you can avoid GMO foods completely by looking for pretzels and other products that are specifically labeled as organic and non-GMO.
Sprouted “Splits” and Sprouted Shells by Unique Pretzel Bakery are the only 100% whole grain sprouted flour pretzel in the industry and the first to be made with healthier organic extra virgin olive oil. They are a great choice if you are trying to avoid genetically modified foods.
Why We Use Sprouted Whole Grain Flour
Whole grain seeds can germinate (sprout), breaking through their outer bran layer and growing into new plants. In the stage between sprouting and developing into plants, they are called “sprouted grains.” Starch molecules in the grain are naturally converted to simple sugars (which our bodies easily digest as vegetables) and the nutrients are preserved.
The less healthy alternative is refined grains. In the case of wheat, most of what we eat in bread, cake, cookies, pasta, cereals and similar products, has been heated, bleached, fumigated, and virtually stripped of most of its health benefits. The refining process removes much of the dietary fiber, iron, and many B vitamins the whole grain contains. Although the products made from refined wheat are later “enriched” with vitamins and minerals, important dietary fiber is not added back.
The process used by Essential Eating® Sprouted Foods involves rinsing, drying, sifting and milling the sprouted grains into 100% whole grain flour that is not bitter and has great baking characteristics. You can learn more about industry standards for sprouted grain at the website of the Whole Grains Council.
Properly sprouted whole grains are considered plants and are classified as vegetables by the USDA. When made into flour, the grains are more easily digested than un-sprouted flour. Another important benefit is that no sweeteners have to be added to improve its taste.
Genetically Modified Foods
Genetically modified foods are foods produced from GMOs (genetically modified organisms) that have been altered through genetic engineering. Most of the scientific community believes that GMOs in foods pose no greater risk to human health than conventional food, but it’s a controversial topic.
Some GMO foods have been engineered to be more nutritious by adding minerals and vitamins. But many consumers are concerned that the process could cause allergic reactions and other health problems.
In the case of wheat, the main ingredient of pretzels and many other snack foods, the USDA has concluded that there is no evidence that any genetically modified wheat is currently being used in commerce.
At least 64 countries in the world, including Australia, China and the European Union, require the labeling of foods that have been genetically modified. It’s voluntary in the U.S. and Canada, so the only way to avoid them is to always choose USDA Certified Organic foods, which are certified to be GMO-free.
Baking pretzels with this revolutionary sprouted whole wheat flour means that Sprouted “Splits” and Sprouted Shells are the ideal choice for non GMO snacks. You’ll enjoy a higher percentage of healthy whole grain in every bite and all of the important vitamins and minerals you would miss out on in products made with refined flour. Look for them at your local Wegmans, Fresh Market, Whole Foods or Giant stores or purchase them online.