Ancient Grains: Health Benefits, Trends, & More!

Definition & Examples of Ancient Grains

While there is no true definition of ancient grains, all whole grains are considered ancient because we are able to trace their roots back to the beginning of time (Oldways). The term “ancient grains” is used to reference grains and in some cases, seeds that have provided food for humans and have had minimal changes to their genetic coding by selective breeding. 

Ancient grains can be classified as cereal grains which include wheat, barley, sorghum, oats, millet, rice, and rye; as pseudo-cereals that include amaranth, buckwheat, chia, sorghum, millet, teff, and quinoa; as pulses that include dry peas, dry beans, lentils, and chickpeas; and oilseeds that include flax, hemp, safflower, sunflower, and soybeans. Today, many of these ancient grains remain as a dietary staple for the population in parts of the developing world. In developed countries, consumers have a renewed interest in ancient grains, especially for those seeking a healthier alternative to highly processed foods.

Health & Nutritional Benefits

Ancient grains offer several health and nutritional benefits to the consumer. Ancient grains are great at providing more protein, fiber, and vitamins than modern grains, and are also higher in omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and zinc. Consuming these grains can also provide long term health benefits such as lowering cholesterol and reducing the risk for heart disease and diabetes. Overall, the best way to ensure you meet all your nutrient needs is to consume a variety of grains. Nutritionists recommend 3 ounces of grains in your daily diet (Health Matters).

Ancient Grain Trends

The trend for ancient grains has grown over the years and especially took off when quinoa hit the mass market in 2010 (Room 214). We are living in a time where consumers are making more conscious choices when it comes to their food. People want sustainable, innovative, clean label products that avoid unhealthy sugars, gluten, and GMOs (Food & Beverage Insider). High-end eateries started to look at incorporating ancient grains and as a result, other restaurants and stores have begun looking into ancient grain products as well. Today, ancient grains are becoming more commonly available for consumers both in stores and when out to eat (Room 214).

NCI Ancient Grains Conference

NCI’s latest handbook, Ancient Grains of the Great Plains, provides an overview of ancient grains for consumers to gain an understanding and appreciation of the value of these grains. NCI wanted to provide consumers with knowledge on ancient grains, so in concurrent with the handbook, we are hosting our Ancient Grains Conference. The conference will be held on June 25, 2024 at the Peltier Complex in Fargo, ND to provide an educational and promotional setting to explore the characteristics and utilization of ancient grains. For more information and to register for the conference, please visit ancientgrainsconference.com.