What kind of flour is in Ezekiel bread? Unveiling the sprouted grain truth

January 12, 2026 •

2 min read

Most people are surprised to learn that Ezekiel bread is often called 'flourless' because it doesn't contain traditional refined flour. Understanding what kind of flour is in Ezekiel bread is key to appreciating its unique nutritional profile derived from a blend of freshly sprouted whole grains and legumes.

Quick Summary

Ezekiel bread is made from sprouted grains and legumes, including wheat, barley, and spelt, which are ground into a dough-like consistency before baking.

Key Points

Sprouted Grains: Ezekiel bread is made from a combination of sprouted grains and legumes, not traditional refined flour.
Not Flourless in the Celiac Sense: The 'flourless' label refers to the absence of processed, pulverized flour, but it is not gluten-free as it contains wheat and spelt.
Nutrient-Dense: The sprouting process increases the bread's nutritional content and makes vitamins and minerals more bioavailable.
Complete Protein Source: The mixture of grains and legumes provides all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete plant-based protein.
Low Glycemic Index: Due to the sprouting process, Ezekiel bread has a lower glycemic index, which is beneficial for managing blood sugar.
Sold Frozen: Without preservatives, Ezekiel bread is typically sold frozen to preserve its freshness and valuable nutrients.

The Core Ingredients of Ezekiel Bread

Instead of conventional processed flour, Ezekiel bread is based on a blend of freshly sprouted whole grains and legumes. Inspired by Ezekiel 4:9, the typical ingredients from manufacturer Food for Life include:

Organic Sprouted Wheat
Organic Sprouted Barley
Organic Sprouted Millet
Organic Sprouted Spelt
Organic Sprouted Lentils
Organic Sprouted Soybeans
Other ingredients: Filtered water, fresh yeast, organic wheat gluten, and sea salt.

These sprouted ingredients are ground together to form the dough, which is why the bread is often referred to as 'flourless'.

The Sprouting Process: What Makes it Different

The sprouting process involves germinating grains and legumes, activating enzymes that make nutrients more accessible and easier to digest. Sprouting can enhance nutrient availability, aid digestion by reducing phytic acid, increase protein and fiber, and potentially lower the glycemic index.

Is Ezekiel Bread Gluten-Free?

Despite the 'flourless' description, Ezekiel bread is not gluten-free as it contains wheat, spelt, and barley. The sprouting process does not remove enough gluten to make it safe for individuals with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance.

Ezekiel Bread vs. Standard Whole Wheat Bread: A Comparison


Feature	Ezekiel 4:9 Sprouted Bread	Standard 100% Whole Wheat Bread
Flour Type	Made from freshly sprouted, ground whole grains and legumes.	Made from ground, often dried whole wheat kernels.
Ingredients	Mix of 6 grains and legumes.	Primarily whole wheat.
Complete Protein	Yes.	No.
Added Sugar	None.	Often contains added sugars.
Digestibility	May be easier due to sprouting.	Can be harder for some.
Preservatives	None; sold frozen.	Often contains preservatives.

The Biblical Inspiration: Ezekiel 4:9

The bread's recipe is based on the biblical verse Ezekiel 4:9, which mentions a combination of wheat, barley, beans, lentils, millet, and spelt. Food for Life adapted this combination, adding the sprouting process to create a nutrient-dense bread. You can find more information about their products at Food for Life: The Live Grain Difference!.

The Flour Story: It's Not What You Think

Ezekiel bread doesn't use traditional flour but a blend of sprouted whole grains and legumes to maximize nutritional potential, including enhanced digestibility and a complete protein profile. This makes it a wholesome option for those without gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

Ezekiel bread is distinguished by its sprouted ingredients, not traditional flour. The combination of sprouted grains and legumes results in a nutritious bread with a rich flavor and dense texture. Inspired by an ancient recipe and enhanced by modern sprouting, it offers a healthy alternative to standard breads, made from living, whole foods.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Ezekiel bread is not gluten-free. It contains gluten-rich grains like wheat, spelt, and barley, which are unsuitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

The term 'flourless' indicates that the bread is made from whole, freshly sprouted grains and legumes that are ground into a paste, not from refined or dried flour.

Ezekiel bread contains a blend of sprouted wheat, barley, spelt, millet, lentils, and soybeans, inspired by the Bible verse Ezekiel 4:9.

Sprouting breaks down starches, making nutrients more available and easier to digest. It also can increase levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in the bread.

Many consider it healthier due to its complete protein profile, higher nutrient availability from sprouting, and the absence of added sugars and preservatives.

No, Ezekiel bread from manufacturers like Food for Life is made without added sugar or preservatives. Its natural sweetness comes from the malted barley.

Ezekiel bread is best stored in the freezer to maintain its freshness. You can take out individual slices as needed, as it thaws quickly.

Yes, because it combines grains and legumes, Ezekiel bread is a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids.