Blue Planet: Ancient grains have more favorable physiological and environmental effects than industrially grown wheat

In the program, János Áder presented the work done by NaturGold Hungária Kft., founded in 2000, covering the production, processing, and sale of spelt known in Hungary.

András Simon explained: in the case of large-scale wheat, which was created by man, they sought to maximize yields, so their cultivation is almost unthinkable without artificial fertilizers and pesticides. In contrast, ancient grains evolved on their own and have not changed for many thousands of years.

Ancient grains are so-called bran grains, in which the valuable grain is surrounded by a protective shell that protects it from environmental influences, such as fungal infections, pests, pathogens and weather conditions. Therefore, they do not need and do not tolerate the use of artificial fertilizers and pesticides. In addition, there is a significant difference in the content of ancient grains and large-scale wheat, he emphasized.

Based on all this, János Áder pointed out: if someone consumes products made from ancient grains, they get more vitamins, amino acids, protein, and fiber than someone who consumes products made from industrially grown wheat.

According to András Simon, ancient grains can absorb the nutrients they need from the soil, which is why organic farming is perfect for them.

After reviewing the beneficial properties and effects of ancient grains, János Áder asked why we don’t grow them then.

In his response, András Simon drew attention to the fact that the advantage of ancient grains is also their disadvantage, namely the husk that protects the seed. This is because it does not roll off the ear during harvesting, but has to be removed with a special machine, and this separate operation also involves additional costs and energy.

János Áder also pointed out that the average yields per hectare of ancient grains are lower than those of traditional large-scale wheat.

András Simon said that

they now process 10,000 tons of spelt wheat per year, and this quantity is increasing because there is demand for their products both in Hungary and abroad. They produce at least 150 types of products, including flours, soup and side dish pasta. In Hungary, their products are available in organic and reform stores nationwide, but they also have an online store and a sample store.
At NaturGold Hungária Kft., production, processing and sales are in one hand – the former head of state informed, adding that NaturGold Hungária Kft. will also participate in this year’s Planet Budapest sustainability expo, which starts on February 25, as on previous occasions.