Understanding the Wheat Sourced for Aashirvaad Atta
For consumers, knowing the origin and type of wheat in their flour is essential for both culinary results and health. The manufacturer of Aashirvaad atta, ITC, is transparent about its sourcing and processing, which varies depending on the specific product line. The company has established a wide network of farmers and sourcing centers to procure the finest grains from different regions of India. This direct sourcing, paired with advanced milling technology, ensures the retention of key nutrients and a consistent product quality.
The Standard Aashirvaad Whole Wheat Atta
The most commonly purchased variety, Aashirvaad Whole Wheat Atta, is made from carefully selected, high-quality whole wheat grains sourced directly from Indian farmers. The grains chosen for this flour are described as being "heavy on the palm, golden amber in colour and hard in bite".
- Sourcing Network: ITC utilizes an extensive network of over 6,500 sourcing centers across India to procure these grains, ensuring a steady supply of premium wheat.
- 4-Step Advantage Process: Before being milled, the grains undergo a proprietary 4-step process of sourcing, cleaning, grinding, and nutrition lockage to ensure purity and nutritional integrity.
- Chakki Grinding: The traditional 'chakki' or stone-grinding process is used to mill the whole grains. This method helps to preserve the natural dietary fibers and nutrients that are critical for making soft and fluffy rotis.
The Premium Aashirvaad Select Sharbati Atta
For those seeking a superior, premium quality atta, Aashirvaad Select is made from a specific and highly sought-after wheat variety known as 'Sharbati'.
Key characteristics of Sharbati wheat:
- Region of Origin: Sharbati wheat, often called the "King of Wheat," is grown exclusively in the fields of Sehore district in Madhya Pradesh.
- Natural Attributes: The grains are known for their consistency, golden sheen, and natural sweetness.
- Dough Properties: Dough made from Sharbati atta absorbs more water, which results in extra soft and tasty rotis that stay soft for a longer period.
The Nutritious Aashirvaad Multigrain Atta
Aashirvaad also offers a Multigrain atta for consumers looking for a broader nutritional profile. This blend incorporates multiple grains to boost the fiber, protein, and vitamin content.
The composition of Aashirvaad Multigrain Atta includes:
- Wheat flour (approx. 90.9%)
- Soya
- Chana (chickpea)
- Oats
- Maize
- Psyllium husk
The 90:10 ratio of whole wheat to other grains is specifically designed to provide the benefits of multiple grains without compromising the taste and texture expected of traditional Indian flatbreads.
Comparison Table: Aashirvaad Atta Varieties
| Feature | Aashirvaad Whole Wheat Atta | Aashirvaad Select Sharbati Atta | Aashirvaad Multigrain Atta |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wheat Variety | High-quality whole wheat grains from various Indian regions | 100% Sharbati wheat from Sehore, MP | Wheat blended with five other grains |
| Key Benefit | Soft, fluffy rotis for daily consumption | Exceptionally soft and sweet-tasting rotis | Enhanced nutritional value with added fiber and protein |
| Sourcing | Extensive network of Indian farmers | Premium sourcing exclusively from Sehore, Madhya Pradesh | Grains sourced and blended according to FSSAI standards |
| Grain Appearance | Heavy on the palm, golden amber, hard bite | Consistent grain size with a golden sheen | Blend of different grains, milled together |
| Texture of Rotis | Soft and fluffy, stays soft for longer | Velvety (Makhmali) soft, stays soft even longer | Soft and healthy, good for digestion |
The 'Chakki' Grinding Difference
Aashirvaad's flour is ground using a modern 'chakki' grinding process, which mimics the traditional stone-grinding technique. This method is crucial as it ensures that the wheat's bran and germ, which contain a high concentration of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, are retained. In contrast, refined flours like maida remove these parts, significantly reducing the nutritional content. The chakki process also helps the flour retain more moisture, contributing to the signature softness of the rotis.
What to consider when choosing your atta
When you're at the store, consider your primary needs to pick the right Aashirvaad product. If you are baking something like a cake, a different type of wheat flour may be more appropriate. For daily rotis and parathas, however, selecting the right atta for flavor and texture is key. If high-fiber and added protein are your goals, the Multigrain version is ideal. For the most premium experience, specifically for sweeter and exceptionally soft rotis, the Sharbati Select variety is the way to go. Otherwise, the Superior MP Whole Wheat atta offers a high-quality, reliable, and nutritious option for everyday meals.
Conclusion
In summary, Aashirvaad atta is not made from a single type of wheat, but rather a selection of high-quality grains chosen specifically for different product lines. The standard whole wheat atta uses carefully selected grains from various Indian farms, while the premium 'Select' variant is made exclusively from the prized Sharbati wheat of Madhya Pradesh. For added nutrition, the Multigrain version is a blend of six different grains. All products are milled using a modern chakki process to preserve nutritional value and produce soft, superior-tasting rotis for consumers. For further information on the milling process and product benefits, consumers can visit the official Aashirvaad website for details on each product.
