For centuries, wheat has been one of the most important food crops cultivated by civilizations around the world. Today wheat ranks as the second most consumed grain in the world, trailing only rice in annual consumption. Farmers can easily grow wheat in a multitude of different climates. The crop stays fresh for a long time and has a high nutritional value. These facts ensure that wheat will remain an important food staple and a valuable commodity for the foreseeable future.

Wheat is a member of the grass family and contains several essential vitamins and minerals including B vitamins, calcium, iron and protein. As a result, food products represent the major demand component for wheat.

Wheat used for foodstuff, is classified as:

• High protein, premium bread making
• Premium bread making
• General purpose bread making
• Biscuit and cake making
• Animal feed

In addition to foodstuffs, wheat is used in other industries:

• The pharmaceutical industry uses gluten in wheat to manufacture capsules.
• The paper industry uses gluten to coat paper products.
• The health and beauty industry use wheat germ, a part of the wheat plant rich in vitamin E, in soaps and creams. Wheat germ is also a healthy food source.