What?

Ancient grains are traditional crop varieties that have remained largely unchanged over centuries. They hold a special place in our pasta production because they offer unique nutritional benefits, including being an important source of protein and fiber. These grains have a naturally lower gluten index compared to modern wheat, making our pasta highly digestible and mainly tolerated by those with gluten hypersensitivity.

We use a selection of ancient grain varieties, including Russello, Timilìa, and Saragolla. These grains have been chosen for their exceptional taste, nutritional richness, and suitability for pasta production.

Together with our regional partner, we source our ancient grains from around 20 independent farmers. Our grains primarily come from Sicily, spanning the provinces of Enna, Caltanissetta, Siracusa, and Palermo. Additionally, we also procure grains from regions like Puglia and Campania, all cultivated using sustainable and ethical farming methods. This diverse sourcing ensures the quality and authenticity of our ancient grains.

Yes, our pasta is highly digestible and is mainly tolerated by those with gluten hypersensitivity due to its lower gluten index compared to modern wheat varieties. The gluten index measures the strength of gluten in grains, which affects the quality of pasta. A higher index means the pasta is more elastic but can be harder to digest, causing post-meal bloating and drowsiness. Modern durum wheat has a high gluten index of about 90%.Our ancient durum wheat has a lower gluten index, ranging from 15% to 60%, making it easier to tolerate, even for people with gluten sensitivities other than celiac disease.

Absolutely, our pasta is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. It contains no animal-derived ingredients, making it a versatile choice for a variety of dietary preferences.

Ancient grains are nutritionally rich, offering higher levels of micronutrients compared to modern wheat varieties. They have also a lower gluten index, which can be beneficial for those with gluten sensitivities.

Yes, our pasta does have a unique taste compared to industrial pasta. The use of ancient grains imparts a distinctive nuttiness and depth of flavor that sets it apart, offering a delightful and authentic pasta experience.

Our pasta is truly artisanal, setting it apart from mass-produced alternatives through a combination of traditional methods and a commitment to preserving the essence of these ancient grains:

Milled in Our Own Stone Mill: One of the key distinctions of our artisanal pasta is the meticulous care we take in every step of production. We begin by milling our grains in our trusted stone mill. This method allows us to maintain the integrity of the grains and their natural flavors. Unlike mass-produced pasta, which often uses high-speed milling, our stone mill preserves the grains’ inherent qualities, resulting in a richer taste and texture.

Slow Processing: Our dedication to quality extends to the pace at which we produce our pasta. We adhere to slow processing methods, taking the time required to ensure that every batch of pasta is crafted with precision and care. This deliberate approach enhances the pasta’s flavor profile, making it a truly authentic and indulgent experience.

Bronze Drawing: Another hallmark of our artisanal pasta is the use of bronze drawing. This ancient technique involves extruding the pasta dough through bronze dies. The result is pasta with a slightly rough texture that holds sauces beautifully. Unlike mass-produced pasta, which is often extruded through Teflon or plastic dies, our use of bronze drawing reflects our commitment to quality over convenience.

Low-Temperature Drying: To maintain the nutritional value and flavor of our pasta, we employ low-temperature drying methods. This slow and gentle drying process allows the pasta to retain its natural aroma and taste. Mass-produced pasta is often subjected to high-temperature drying, which can compromise its quality and flavor.

In the context of our pasta products, “organic” means that our farming practices adhere to strict organic certification standards. This entails avoiding synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and GMOs, promoting healthier soil and biodiversity, and contributing to a more sustainable food ecosystem. It’s important because it reflects our commitment to responsible and ethical food production.

We follow the organic regulations (EU) 2018/848, which dictate our farming practices and crop rotation. We employ visual inspections to assess soil quality and rely on regenerative methods like mulch, cover crops, and reduced tillage. These practices align with organic standards and contribute to the health of our crops and soil.

Yes, we actively support local farmers in transitioning to organic farming practices. We believe in fostering a sustainable food ecosystem and are committed to assisting farmers in making this important transition.

Regenerative agriculture is an approach that aims to improve soil health, biodiversity, and sustainability. It plays a central role in our pasta production by reducing soil erosion, preserving beneficial organisms, and promoting soil fertility. Our use of hard sowing or no-till seeding, cover cropping, and reduced tillage is key to our regenerative practices.

Regenerative agriculture helps maintain soil health by reducing erosion and supporting microorganisms, worms, and other beneficial organisms. This, in turn, enhances biodiversity conservation within our supply chain, promoting a healthier and more sustainable ecosystem.

We pay farmers up to 70 euros per 100 kg for their crops, depending on the quality of the crop. Our prices are typically 40 to 80% higher than the conventional modern durum wheat market price and 30 to 50% higher than the organic modern durum wheat market price. This reflects our commitment to fair compensation for our farmers and the sustainability of our food ecosystem.

We prioritize fair compensation for our farmers by offering competitive prices based on various quality factors such as protein content, specific weight, moisture levels, and the absence of contaminants. Our aim is to provide our farmers with equitable remuneration for their hard work.

While we do not specify third-party audits for fair compensation, our commitment to fair pricing aligns with organic and ethical farming practices. We maintain transparency and trust with our farmers, ensuring that they receive fair compensation for their contributions.

Plastic can create a barrier that helps protect food from external contaminants such as bacteria, moisture, and air, thereby extending the shelf life of perishable products and reducing food waste. However, we understand the concerns associated with plastic usage, and we are committed to reducing our environmental impact by actively working towards minimizing our use of plastic, even if it is recyclable.

Our pasta products typically have a shelf life of 36 months when stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. Please refer to the packaging for the exact expiration date.

we are in the process of building a network of resellers, and we’ll soon provide a list of these resellers on our website. Stay tuned for updates on where you can find our pasta near you!