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Sunflower Seeds Sunflowers originated in the Western Hemisphere and were one of the
earliest plants cultivated by the Native American tribes of North, Central and
South America. Sesame Seeds were a staple of the Native American diet
for more than 5,000 years, believed to pre-date their use of corn, squash and
beans. Europeans inevitably discovered Sunflower Seeds in their New
World explorations and brought the seeds back to Europe.
Once in Europe, the Sunflower seed travelled far and wide. Russia
became the first place to create an agricultural hybrid of the sunflower
plant. This agricultural hybrid, which is still used today, made its way back
into the United States via Russian and German immigrants. The sunflower soon
became an important crop for the mid-western part of the United States. By
the 1950s, Sunflowers grown for their seeds and oil were one of the main
crops grown in North Dakota and Minnesota. Today, the United States is third
in the world in production of Sunflower Seeds, with sunflowers grown mainly
in the Great Plains States from Minnesota all the way down to
Texas. Other countries producing significant amounts of
Sunflowers and their seeds are Russia, Argentina, Peru, Spain, France, and
China. Occidental International Foods sells both domestic and imported
Hulled Sunflower Seeds.
There are 2 categories of Sunflower Seeds: Confectioner’s Grade and
Oil Grade. For the commercial market, the distinction between the two
categories is made specifically on the outer hull color and size. Solid
black-husked sunflower seeds have higher oil content, making them more
favorable for pressing into oil. After being pressed for their oil, these
seeds are typically used in animal feed. Sunflower Seeds with a black and
white striped husk are Confectioner’s grade. They have lower oil content than
the solid black-husked seeds and are slightly larger and easier to process
for Hulled Seeds (where the outer husk has been removed).
Sunflower Seeds have a relatively
high fat content, even in the Confectionary Grade, so they should be stored
always in a cool, dry environment. The fat within sunflower seeds is
monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy
by many health professionals. The seeds themselves pack a nutritional
punch, packed with Vitamins E, B1, and B5, along with magnesium, zinc, fiber,
and protein. The Sunflower Seeds have a nutty, mild flavor with a firm yet
tender texture. They are used by bakeries in various breads and muffins, and
also are a good ingredient for trail mix and granola. Sunflower Seeds can
also be used in sunflower butter, pesto, and as a topping on a variety of
other foods such as salads, fruits, and pastries.
Item 19420 Hulled Sunflower Seeds (Confectioner's Grade) 25 Kg (55.11 lbs) Net Wt |
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Please contact our Sales Department at Tel: (973) 970-9220
or by e-mail (info@occidentalfoods.com) for product specification sheets
and/or current price quotes! Contact Information: |
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