What Are the Ingredients in Ezekiel Sprouted Grain Bread?

Did you know that Ezekiel bread is made from six specific sprouted grains and legumes, not traditional flour? This distinctive blend is inspired by an ancient biblical recipe and is the key to understanding what are the ingredients in Ezekiel sprouted grain bread and its unique nutritional benefits.

Quick Summary

This article breaks down the core components of Ezekiel sprouted grain bread, detailing the six sprouted organic grains and legumes that provide its robust nutritional profile and complete protein source.

Key Points

• Core Grains: Contains sprouted organic wheat, barley, millet, and spelt, inspired by a biblical verse.

• Complete Protein Source: The combination of sprouted grains and legumes (lentils and soybeans) provides all nine essential amino acids.

• Flourless Process: Made from crushed, sprouted whole grains rather than conventional flour, which helps boost nutritional content.

• Enhanced Nutrient Absorption: Sprouting breaks down anti-nutrients like phytic acid, allowing for better absorption of minerals like iron and zinc.

• Natural Preservation: Contains no artificial preservatives, requiring it to be sold and stored in the freezer to maintain freshness.

• Easier Digestion: The sprouting process pre-digests starches and proteins, potentially making the bread easier to digest for some individuals.

• Vegan-Friendly: The standard Ezekiel bread recipe is plant-based and contains no dairy or eggs.

Ezekiel sprouted grain bread is a nutritious alternative to conventional breads due to its unique ingredients and preparation. Unlike standard breads made from flour, Ezekiel bread uses freshly sprouted grains and legumes. The original Food for Life Ezekiel 4:9 bread contains simple, clean, and organic ingredients, without added sugars, preservatives, or artificial components.

The Six Core Sprouted Ingredients

Inspired by the Book of Ezekiel, the bread combines six specific sprouted plant-based ingredients:

• Sprouted Organic Wheat: Provides complex carbohydrates and fiber.
• Sprouted Organic Barley: Adds a hearty texture and nutty flavor.
• Sprouted Organic Millet: A mild-tasting grain.
• Sprouted Organic Spelt: An ancient wheat species with a slightly different nutritional profile.
• Sprouted Organic Lentils: A source of plant-based protein and fiber.
• Sprouted Organic Soybeans: Another legume that, combined with the grains, creates a complete protein.

The Role of Sprouting

Sprouting involves soaking seeds until they begin to germinate, changing their nutritional makeup. This process offers several advantages:

• Increased Nutrient Bioavailability: Sprouting reduces anti-nutrients like phytic acid, improving the absorption of minerals such as iron, zinc, calcium, and magnesium.
• Enhanced Digestibility: Complex starches and proteins are broken down into simpler forms, potentially making the bread easier on the digestive system.
• Higher Protein Content: The combination of sprouted ingredients creates a complete protein with all essential amino acids.
• Natural Sweetness: Sprouting converts some starches into sugars, adding a natural sweetness.

Other Ingredients

Beyond the six sprouted components, a few other basic ingredients are used for structure and baking:

• Filtered Water: Used for sprouting and dough creation.
• Organic Malted Barley: Adds flavor and aids baking.
• Yeast: The leavening agent.
• Sea Salt: Enhances flavor.
• Organic Wheat Gluten: Provides structure, as the dough is made from crushed grains.

Ezekiel Bread vs. Standard White Bread

The difference in ingredients results in distinct nutritional profiles:

Feature	Ezekiel 4:9 Sprouted Grain Bread	Standard White Bread
Key Ingredients	Sprouted whole grains and legumes	Refined wheat flour
Processing	Minimally processed, flourless	Highly processed
Nutrient Content	High in fiber, vitamins, minerals	Low in fiber and nutrients
Protein	Complete plant-based protein	Incomplete protein
Added Sugar	None	Often contains added sugars
Digestibility	Easier to digest	Can cause digestive issues
Preservatives	None	Typically contains artificial preservatives
Shelf Life	Shorter; must be frozen/refrigerated	Longer; stable at room temperature

Conclusion

In summary, the ingredients in Ezekiel sprouted grain bread are sprouted organic wheat, barley, millet, spelt, lentils, and soybeans, along with filtered water, yeast, and sea salt. Using sprouted whole foods instead of flour enhances its nutritional value, offering more protein, fiber, and absorbable nutrients. While not gluten-free, sprouting may improve digestibility for some. Ezekiel bread is a nutrient-dense option compared to many commercial breads. You can find more information on sprouted grains on the Food For Life website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ezekiel sprouted grain bread gluten-free?

No, Ezekiel bread is not gluten-free. It contains sprouted wheat, barley, and spelt, all of which are gluten-containing grains. It is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity.

Why is Ezekiel bread sold frozen in stores?

Ezekiel bread is sold frozen because it contains no artificial preservatives to extend its shelf life. Freezing is necessary to maintain its freshness and prevent mold growth.

What makes Ezekiel bread a complete protein?

Ezekiel bread becomes a complete protein because it combines all nine essential amino acids from both its sprouted grains (like wheat and spelt) and legumes (lentils and soybeans).

What does 'sprouted' mean in relation to the bread?

Sprouted refers to grains that have been soaked in water and allowed to germinate. This process activates enzymes, which break down starches and anti-nutrients, making the bread easier to digest and its nutrients more readily available.

Is Ezekiel bread lower in carbohydrates than regular bread?

While the sprouting process breaks down some starches, making the bread lower on the glycemic index, its overall carbohydrate count is similar to other types of bread. A standard slice contains about 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Can I use a different sweetener if I want to make homemade Ezekiel bread?

For those making homemade versions, you can use substitutes like molasses or maple syrup in place of honey, though it may alter the flavor slightly. However, the original Food for Life bread has no added sugar.

How long does Ezekiel bread last once thawed?

Once thawed, Ezekiel bread should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 to 5 days, as it lacks the preservatives of most conventional breads.