Generation Pep has compiled a list of foods that children need to eat more of, based on recommendations from the Swedish Food Agency. Two key things children should consume more of include:
Only 1 in 10 teenagers eats as much whole grain as they should. In fact, not eating enough whole grains is currently the biggest diet-related cause of illness. Whole grains provide a wealth of health benefits; they are nutrient-dense foods that almost everyone should eat more of.
Additionally, many young people do not get enough essential minerals like iron and zinc. In Sweden, 25-30% of girls and young women are at risk of iron deficiency. However, the body struggles to absorb minerals found in grains. This is where the Mineral Shift project has found a solution.
Using an innovative method developed by scientists behind the company Hidden in Grains, they have created a process called hydrothermal treatment to improve mineral absorption.
Hydrothermal treatment is a gentle yet effective processing method that makes it easier for the body to absorb the nutrients in grains. By using heat and water, the process breaks down phytic acid, which otherwise binds minerals like iron and zinc, making them harder to absorb.
Hydrothermal treatment also enhances the flavor of the grain. That’s why, in the Mineral Shift project, we have spent years testing and developing a variety of foods using hydrothermally treated grains. One of the results? This very snack!
Of course, a great snack needs some creaminess too. While looking for the perfect ingredient, we discovered that Swedish white cheese production leaves behind small leftover pieces that are hard to sell. These pieces are packed with protein, vitamins, and essential minerals. Since we strongly dislike food waste, we decided to make use of this cheese—it’s good for the environment, the climate, and, of course, the taste.
This snack checks off multiple essential nutrients that children need more of: whole grains and fruits/berries. On top of that, it’s a source of protein.
Beyond focusing on nutrition, we’ve also prioritized minimizing the product’s environmental impact. We achieve this by using the entire grain—not just the germ—and making use of surplus pieces of Swedish white cheese.
After testing Råggyberry on one of Sweden’s toughest taste panels—families with children—we found that 8 out of 10 thought it was delicious or super delicious!
Swedish cut whole grain rye, pieces of white cheese from Falköping’s cheese production, yogurt, a compote of apples & blackcurrants, a small amount of sugar, vanillin sugar, and a touch of salt. The rye porridge contains 44% cooked whole grain rye, and the total fruit content in the product is 28%.
This snack is an innovation from Torsåker farm, developed by Axfoundation in collaboration with Matlust Utvecklingsnod, Hidden in Grains, Urban Deli, Middagsfrid, Dagab, and Warbo Kvarn through the Mineral Shift project.
