Khorasan (also known by its trademark name - Kamut) grain is an ancient relative of modern durum wheat and originated in the Fertile Crescent of the Old World thousands of years ago. After a long period of oblivion, this grain was rediscovered and has now found an important place in contemporary diets. Superior in both taste and nutrition, it can be substituted for common wheat with great success.

The complete nutritional analysis of khorasan grain substantiates that it is higher in energy than other wheats. Compared to common wheat, it is high in eight of nine minerals, such as magnesium and zinc. It has been found to contain much more of the natural antioxidant selenium and is 30% higher in the similarly important vitamin E. The grain also contains up to 65% more amino acids and boasts more lipids and fatty acids. The most striking superiority of khorasan is found in its protein level, up to 40% higher than the national average for wheat. Because of its higher percentage of lipids, which produce more energy in the body than carbohydrates, khorasan can be described as a "high energy grain." khorasan was named one of the ten best foods by whole foods author David Goldbeck.

For those suffering wheat sensitivities, khorasan products also play a unique role. Research studies concluded "For most wheat sensitive people, khorasan grain can be an excellent substitute for common wheat." Whilst Khorasan may be tolerated by many people with wheat sensitivities we must caution anyone with Coeliac Disease that it contains gluten and should be totally avoided.

Perhaps the most significant aspect of the introduction and cultivation of khorasan grain is that it is an important new crop for sustainable agriculture. This grain's ability to produce high quality yields without the use of artificial fertilisers and pesticides makes it an excellent crop for organic farming.

Sources:

• 'Kamut',Dynamic Vegies,VEG OUT,Vol.2 Issue 2 Paul Pitchford
• Healing with Wholefoods, North Atlantic Books, 1993
• The Kamut Association of North America:http://www.kamut.com/