The gluten-free diet might seem like it's taken over the world, it's true, but if you want to join in on the craze, you should definitely try gluten-free flour made from acorns. Yes, acorns.
Though most commonly known as nourishment for squirrels, acorns have been widely enjoyed by humans throughout history. New York-based arborist Bill Logan explains, "There's a lot of references in ancient Greek literature to [the] acorn." The acorn also pops up in historical reference everywhere from Russia to Southeast Asia. Today, the acorn has been surpassed by the walnut and hazelnut, but it's looking for its comeback.
The acorn is easy to harvest, but slightly more difficult to prepare. To ensure it's edible, you must soak it to remove the astringent tannins it contains.
Milled Acorn Flour
This Gluten-Free Flour Comes from Acorns
Trend Themes
1. Gluten-free Flour - Opportunity to explore and innovate gluten-free flour made from natural, sustainable acorn source.
2. Nostalgia Foods - Develop food products that pays homage to historical foods such as acorn flour, but with modern twist.
3. Sustainable Food - Opportunity to promote food sustainability through the use of acorn flour that is easy to harvest and prepare.
Industry Implications
1. Food Manufacturing - Acorn flour can be produced and used in various food products that are marketed for its gluten-free and sustainable qualities.
2. Health and Wellness - Acorn flour can be marketed as a healthy and natural alternative to wheat flour due to its gluten-free and nutrient-dense properties.
3. Agriculture - Opportunity to explore farming and production of acorns as a sustainable crop for the food and beverage industry.