Organic sunflower seeds

Sunflower seeds are considered a genuine local “superfood” because they are rich in healthy fats, numerous vitamins, minerals and trace elements, as well as high-quality protein. The Incas already revered this beautiful flower as an image of the sun god. Spanish sailors brought it to Europe in the 16th century, where it was initially popular as an ornamental plant. People soon recognized the value of sunflower seeds as a nutritious and delicious addition to their diet. Today, sunflowers delight not only the eye with their large, bright yellow flowers, but also the palate with their seeds. Seeds in all kinds of varieties, along with versatile sunflower oil, have become indispensable in shopping baskets. Organic sunflower seeds are also an important ingredient in our BERTRAND drinking meals.

Sunflower seeds are considered a genuine local “superfood” because they are rich in healthy fats, numerous vitamins, minerals and trace elements, as well as high-quality protein. The Incas already revered this beautiful flower as an image of the sun god. Spanish sailors brought it to Europe in the 16th century, where it was initially popular as an ornamental plant. People soon recognized the value of sunflower seeds as a nutritious and delicious addition to their diet. Today, sunflowers delight not only the eye with their large, bright yellow flowers, but also the palate with their seeds. Seeds in all kinds of varieties, along with versatile sunflower oil, have become indispensable in shopping baskets. Organic sunflower seeds are also an important ingredient in our BERTRAND drinking meals.

How are sunflower seeds processed?

The sunflower seeds (botanically: Helianthus annuus L.) grow in the flower head, which is surrounded by striking yellow petals. Large flowers can contain up to 2,000 seeds. Since up to 70,000 sunflowers can be grown on one hectare of land, the yield per hectare can be as high as 140 million sunflower seeds. Incidentally, these beautiful flowers are so-called “compass plants”: Throughout the day, the budding flower heads align themselves with the position of the sun. Unfortunately, they lose this remarkable characteristic once they are in full bloom.

1. CULTIVATION

   We work with organic farmers in Hungary who grow sunflowers in their fields according to organic farming principles. The plant is a heat-loving germinator and also requires plenty of warmth as it grows. It thrives poorly in cold soils, and late spring frosts can even result in a complete crop failure. That is why the moderately warm and sunny region around Lake Balaton, where our organic sunflower seeds come from, is such a favorable growing area.

   UNDER THE SUN OF LAKE BALATON

2. HARVEST

   In late summer, around mid-September, the ripe sunflower seeds can be harvested. Farmers recognize the right harvesting time by the fact that the inner seeds are easy to crack open and remove from their shells. The inside of the seed is then beautifully soft. The underside of the flower head turns brown, and the leaves die off. The plant’s moisture content must not exceed 15 percent. Harvesting is carried out using suitably adapted combine harvesters, specialized sunflower cutters, or modified corn pickers.

   THE TIMING HAS TO BE RIGHT

3. FURTHER PROCESSING

   After harvesting, the crop usually needs to be dried further, after which the seeds are threshed out. The seeds are separated from the stalks and other plant material. Once the seed moisture content is only 8 percent, the sunflower seeds can be stored. The plant residues are also usually put to further use: pectin can be obtained from the flower heads, while the stalks and leaves can be used as compost material.

   THE SEED IS SEPARATED

4. STORAGE

   The seeds are then removed from their hard shells, as these cannot be used further. They must then be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place. Otherwise, they tend to become rancid. We therefore aim for the shortest possible storage time to preserve the seeds’ full flavor and valuable nutrients.

   COOL AND DRY

5. GRINDING

   It is only immediately before the production of the respective BERTRAND meal drinks that the whole organic sunflower seeds are gently ground into a powder in our facility. Unlike milling, this grinding process prevents too much oil from escaping the seed, which could otherwise make the powder too moist. It would also heavily contaminate the mill.

   ONLY SHORTLY BEFORE FILLING

But why sunflower seeds?

Sunflower seeds are rich in vitamins, minerals and trace elements. Healthy fats and dietary fiber round out the range of valuable nutrients. In addition, these small seeds have an excellent flavor: We appreciate their mild, nutty, intense and utterly distinctive flavor in our BERTRAND drinkable meals. But the nutrients are especially important to us.

Vitamins in organic sunflower seeds

With plenty of fat-soluble vitamin E (38.8 mg/100 g), sunflower seeds provide us with an effective antioxidant that protects our cells from oxidative stress. The seeds also supply the important water-soluble B vitamins B1, B3 and B6. Vitamin B1 (thiamine) is involved in energy production. Vitamin B3 (niacin) supports the breakdown and synthesis of carbohydrates, amino acids and fatty acids. Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) promotes the formation of neurotransmitters in the nervous system. The entire vitamin B complex is an important regulator of metabolism. Vitamins A, D and K are also found in this “local superfood.” Vitamin A (retinol) is important for the skin and mucous membranes, vitamin D (calciferols) for our bones, and vitamin K (phylloquinone) is involved in blood clotting. Folic acid also supports nerve metabolism and cell division.

Minerals and trace elements in our SBK

When it comes to magnesium (336 mg/100 g), sunflower seeds are nearly unbeatable. Magnesium is involved in signal transmission in the muscles, the storage and release of hormones, and it activates the enzymes involved in energy metabolism. It is also good for the bones. The small powerhouses are also rich in iron. Those who avoid meat will find a good source of iron here, especially when combined with protein and vitamin C. Iron plays an important role in blood formation as well as in the storage and transport of oxygen in the body. Zinc, which is also present in significant amounts, stimulates the immune system and is part of the antioxidant protection system. Sunflower seeds are also a good source of selenium. It is involved in thyroid metabolism and influences blood clotting. Last but not least, copper should be mentioned: together with iron, it regulates blood formation and protects against free radicals.

Fiber in sunflower seeds

These delicious seeds can contain up to 9 percent fiber. The German Nutrition Society (DGE) points out that today’s diet, which is too low in vegetables, fruit, and nuts, has led to a significantly reduced fiber intake. It recommends around 30 grams of fiber per day. According to the DGE, people who consume plenty of these indigestible food components have a significantly lower risk of developing diet-related diseases such as obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and coronary heart disease. The fiber in sunflower seeds is insoluble fiber. It increases stool weight and volume, thereby ensuring smooth bowel function and counteracting constipation. Fiber also prolongs the feeling of fullness and helps curb cravings.

Good macros in sunflower seeds

In addition, sunflower seeds contain 20–25 percent protein and only 18–20 percent carbohydrates. They are therefore high in protein and low in carbohydrates. Their high protein content makes them a good plant-based source of protein for vegetarians and vegans, as well as athletes and older people. The seeds contain 47 percent fat, up to 90 percent of which consists of unsaturated fatty acids. The relatively high level of omega-6 fatty acids in the seeds is balanced in our products by a high proportion of omega-3 fatty acids. Their energy content is around 580 kilocalories. All nutritional values are averages, as they may vary slightly depending on the variety, origin, and ripeness of the seeds.