German Whole Grain Breads and Cereals

While "carbs" may be tiptoeing back into favor, health-conscious consumers are expected to become increasingly picky about the kind of carbs they consume. The inescapable buzzword for both consumers and the food industry this year is "whole grain", fueled by the release of the new USDA nutritional guidelines.

Nutritionists are advising consumers to add more grains to their diet by starting with the simple staples such as breads and cereals. However, shopping for whole grain breads can be confusing to many consumers who may confuse 'whole wheat' with 'whole grain'. By selecting breads from Germany, the confusion can be avoided, since the vast majority of imported German breads are indeed whole grain.

German breads are made from top quality whole grain rye flour and are baked slowly in steam-heated ovens, a long process that brings out the bread's distinctive darker color, nutty taste and moist, firm texture. The baking process is based on century old baking methods, yet uses high tech equipment to ensure consistent high quality.

Because of their high moisture content and special packaging, German bakers have developed breads that can keep for at least six months unopened. They also freeze extremely well, thus making them a convenient purchase for busy shoppers. Whether vacuumed packed in plastic, foil or even cans, all German breads exported to North America arrive in stores in first class condition and are date-coded to ensure perfect freshness.

The most popular varieties of German whole grain breads exported to North America include sunflower seed, rye, fitness, multi-grain, linseed, multigrain crisp breads and of course the famous pumpernickel. Brands imported include Brotmann, Delba, Feldkamp, Landsberg, Lieken, Mestemacher, Muehlenbrot, Pema, Schluender and Wasa. These brands are available at your local retailer or online at www.germangrocery.com or www.germandeli.com.

Also available in the United States are par-baked frozen breads and bread rolls made from stone ground whole grain all natural flours. The breads and rolls are imported from Germany and shipped frozen to your doorstep. For more information and to place an order visit www.priskas.com.

Nutritionists also suggest beginning the day with whole grain cereals in order to meet the three servings per day recommendation. German producers Mestemacher and Seitenbacher both offer a range of organic European mueslis for a delicious, healthy start to the day. Choose from such delicious varieties as Cashews and Almonds, Seeds and Raisins, Berries and Almonds or Forest Berry, Nut and Berry or Honey Crunch Muesli. You can purchase these and other whole grain cereals at www.germandeli.com.

Read more about the role German breads and cereals play in healthy eating.