Organic sunflower seeds
Sunflower seeds are considered a real domestic “superfood” because they are rich in healthy fats, various vitamins, minerals, and trace elements as well as high-quality protein. Among the Incas this beautiful flower was revered 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. But it was quickly realized that sunflower seeds are valuable as a nutritious and tasty dietary enhancement. And so today, sunflowers delight not only the eye with their large, bright yellow flowers, but also the palate with their seeds.
Seeds of all possible varieties and the versatile sunflower oil have become indispensable in shopping baskets. Organic sunflower seeds are also an important ingredient in our BERTRAND liquid meals.
Sunflower seeds are considered a real domestic “superfood” because they are rich in healthy fats, various vitamins, minerals, and trace elements as well as high-quality protein. Among the Incas this beautiful flower was revered 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. But it was quickly realized that sunflower seeds are valuable as a nutritious and tasty dietary enhancement. And so today, sunflowers delight not only the eye with their large, bright yellow flowers, but also the palate with their seeds. Seeds of all possible varieties and the versatile sunflower oil have become indispensable in shopping baskets. Organic sunflower seeds are also an important ingredient in our BERTRAND liquid meals.
Where do our organic sunflower seeds come from?
We obtain the organic sunflower seeds for our products from organic farmers in Hungary, mainly from the region around Lake Balaton. The area around Lake Balaton offers excellent climatic and soil conditions. Along with France, Bulgaria, and Romania, Hungary is one of the main sunflower growing areas in Europe. Although cultivation is increasing in Germany, 90 percent of the sunflower seeds processed here are still imported. This applies especially to organic farming. About 50 million tons of conventional and organic sunflower seeds are harvested worldwide. Here at BERTRAND we rely on our trusted suppliers in Hungary with whom we maintain long-term partnerships. This allows us to guarantee that our sunflower seeds are of high quality.
We purchase the organic sunflower seeds from farmers in Hungary.
1 of 1How are the sunflower seeds processed?
The seeds of the sunflower (botanical: Helianthus annuus L.) grow in the base of the flower head 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 is up to 140 million sunflower seeds. Incidentally, the beautiful flowers are so-called “compass plants”; the budding flower heads align themselves throughout the day according to the position of the sun. Unfortunately, they lose this remarkable characteristic as soon as they have fully come into bloom.
But why sunflower seeds?
Sunflower seeds are rich in vitamins, minerals, and trace elements. Good fats and dietary fiber supplement the range of valuable, healthy ingredients. In addition, the little seeds have an excellent flavor. For our BERTRAND liquid meals we value the mildly nutty, lush, and highly characteristic aroma. But the nutrients are particularly 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 provide the important water-soluble B vitamins B1, B3, and B6. Vitamin B1 (thiamine) is involved in energy production. Vitamin B3 (niacin) supports the buildup and breakdown of carbohydrates, amino acids, and fatty acids. Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) promotes the formation of messenger substances in the nervous system. The entire vitamin B complex is an important regulator of the metabolism. The vitamins A, D, and K are also contained in the “domestic superfood”. Vitamin A (retinol) is important for the skin and mucous membranes, vitamin D (calciferol) for our bones and vitamin K (phylloquinone) is involved in blood clotting. In addition there is folic acid for nerve metabolism and cell division.
Minerals and trace elements in our sunflower seeds
In terms of magnesium (336 mg/100 g), sunflower seeds are almost unbeatable. Magnesium is involved in signal transmission in the muscle, in the storage and release of hormones, and it activates the enzymes of the energy metabolism. It is also good for the bones. Iron is also abundant in the little power packs. Those who avoid meat will find a good source of iron, especially in combination with protein and vitamin C. Iron plays an important role in blood formation and 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 defense system. Sunflower seeds are also a good source of selenium. Selenium is involved in thyroid metabolism and affects blood clotting. Last but not least, we should mention copper, which in combination with iron regulates blood formation and protects against free radicals.
Dietary fiber in sunflower seeds
Up to nine percent dietary fiber can be found in the tasty seeds. The German Society for Nutrition (DGE) points out that today’s diet with its lack of vegetables, fruits, and nuts has led to a significantly reduced dietary fiber intake. It recommends about 30 grams of fiber per day. According to the DGE, people who consume a lot of these indigestible food components have significantly reduced risk of diet-related diseases (obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and coronary heart disease). The dietary fibers of sunflower seeds are water-insoluble. They increase stool weight and volume. In this way they ensure smooth bowel function and counteract constipation. Fiber also prolongs the feeling of fullness and counteracts cravings.
Good macros in sunflower seeds
Furthermore, sunflower seeds have a protein content of 20-25 percent and a carbohydrate content of only 18-20 percent. So they are rich in protein and low in carbohydrates. Their high protein content makes them a good vegetable protein source for vegetarians and vegans as well as athletes and elderly people. The fat content of the seeds is 47 percent, of which up to 90 percent are unsaturated fats. The relatively high content of omega-6 fatty acids in the seeds is balanced in our products by a high proportion of omega-3 fatty acids. The energy content is about 580 kilocalories. All nutritional values are average values, as they may vary slightly depending on the variety, origin and degree of ripeness of the seeds.
- Picture of the sunflower field in the upper part of the page: trusjom via shutterstock
- European map: teka12 via Shutterstock
- Post picture, sunflower seeds on white background: Hekla via shutterstock
