As one of the world’s most important food crops, wheat is highly valued for its nutritional content and versatility. With a wide range of benefits, irrigated wheat provides a dependable source of sustenance for farmers and consumers. Here are some of the various varieties of irrigated wheat that are commonly cultivated and consumed around the world.
1. Hard Red Winter Wheat
This wheat variety is usually cultivated in western states of the US, including Colorado, Oklahoma, and Kansas. It is a high protein variety that is commonly used in pasta and bread products.
2. Durum Wheat
Grown primarily throughout the Mediterranean region and northern and western India, durum wheat is high in protein and gluten strength. It is used to prepare pasta like spaghetti, macaroni, and vermicelli.
3. Soft White Wheat
This wheat variety is known for its tender endosperm texture and is often used in different confectionery products like cakes, pastries, and biscuits. Soft White wheat is generally used in the Pacific Northwest region of the US.
4. Hard Red Spring Wheat
Another wheat variety that is largely cultivated in Montana, North Dakota, and South Dakota is Hard Red Spring Wheat. It has a high protein content and is suitable for creating various pasta, bread, and other baked products.
5. Hard White Wheat
This particular wheat variety that is grown in regions like California, Idaho, and Montana is known for its unique characteristics that is light colour, mild flavour and excellent texture. This wheat variety is used to prepare various baked goods like bread, waffles, and pita.
6. Soft Red Winter Wheat
Grown mainly in states like Kentucky, Mississippi, and Ohio, Soft Red Winter Wheat is known for its lower protein content, making it an appropriate ingredient for creating baked goods such as biscuits, pastry, and cake.
7. Kamut
Kamut wheat is known for its high protein and low gluten content which can be consumed by many who have gluten sensitivities. It has a nutty flavour, and it is used in making couscous, pastries, bread, and pasta.
In conclusion, these are the various types of irrigated wheat that have been cultivated to meet the needs of different consumers and the climate of the regions where they are grown. Each type of wheat has its unique characteristics. However, all varieties of irrigated wheat are highly nutritious and are essential components of the global food supply chains.