About Teff
TEFF
Teff, also known as 'Eragrostis Tef' or 'Williams Lovegrass' is a tiny grass seed native to Ethiopia.
Teff was domesticated between 6000 and 4000 BC making it one of the world's most ancient cultivated crops; a distinction that speaks volumes of its qualities as a source of sustenance.
Among Ethiopians and Eritreans, teff flour has been used across thousands of years to make 'Injera'; a flat sourdough bread with a spongy texture, ifs eaten every day topped with fragrant stews and sauces. What makes teff special are its outstanding nutritional qualities. it is not only naturally gluten free but also an excellent source of prebiotic fibre, complex, slow-releasing carbohydrates and eight different amino acids, Teff seeds are high in iron, magnesium, manganese, calcium and zinc, contain an impressive arsenal of B vitamins 82. 83, 86) and unlike other grains or cereals offer significant amount of vitamin C.
World-class athletes know these benefits, embrace them and endorse them. Many of Ethiopia's elite runners have attributed their physical abilities to teff including Haile Gebrselassie (who set 27 world records in his career; from BOCsmeters to the full marathon), Kenenisa Bekele (world record holder in the 5,000 and 1 0.000-meter events) and Tirunesh Dibaba (Outdoor 5.000-meter world record holder).
An outstanding combination of natural nutrients that promote endurance, performance and overall good health elevates teff above other grains, giving it 'super-food' status.
Teff's taste is delicate with a deliciously nutty undertone, its flavour is less prominent than other gluten free foods such as buckwheat or Ewen quinoa, making it easy to incorporate into everyday diet. Ground into flour it is an excellent substitute for wheat or other gluten free flours. the whole grains can be eaten cooked into porridge or boiled and served in a similar way to rice or quinoa.
We source all our teff directly from small hold Ethiopian farmers and the original communities that have farmed it for thousands of years.
For Muscle Development
- Teff is a great source of easily digestible protein (holds a cellular structure and protein content similar to egg-whites, but because it is vegetable-based, digestion happens easier).
- Provides eight different amino acids that when combined with teff proteins, creates a great blend of nutrients perfect for muscle-building and recovery.
- Teff is also a good source of copper which energizes the body and helps heal muscles, joints and tissue fibre
For Your Gut
- Teff is life-changing in how it can relieve inflammation, constipation, bloating, cramping and other serious gastrointestinal issues as claimed by people suffering from IBS.
- The huge amount of prebiotic fibre contained in teff stimulates the growth of good gut bacteria and supports colon health.
For Your Immune System
- Most grains provide minerals, but the concentration in teff is exceptional with large quantities of essential minerals such magnesium, calcium and zinc being found in it.
- An excellent source of B vitamins, teff is also the only known grain or cereal to offer equally significant amounts of Vitamin C.
- This source is useful to find out more information about teff’s health benefits; The Seed of Our Change - Teff. – The Happy Tummy Co.
For Circulation
- The high levels of iron in teff support your body’s ability to produce haemoglobin which is vital for the oxygenation of your heart and other organs.
- The iron content in teff can also help reduce dizziness, potential for cognitive impairment, muscle cramps and headaches.
- Due to its high iron content, teff can be beneficial to people suffering from anaemia.
For Your Bones
- Teff provides a great concentration of calcium and manganese, critical for both development and maintenance.
A Gluten Free Nutritional Powerhouse
Teff is a tiny but mighty Super Grain!
Key Facts And Nutritional Benefits
- HIgh in Protein, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium and Copper
- Not only a source of B vitamins, Teff is the only grain known to contain significant amounts of vitamin C
- Teff is high in probiotic fibre (a key benefit for IBS sufferers)
- Whole grain, with high resistant starch (low GI)
- And of course Teff is naturally Gluten Free
The Story of Teff
- Teff, also known as ‘Eragrostis Tef’ or ‘Williams Lovegrass’ is an annual grass native to Ethiopia
- It is the smallest and possibly the most ancient of all domesticated grains having originated in Ethiopia between 4000 BC and 1000 BC
- For thousands of years the Ethiopian people have used Teff as the main ingredient of the staple food Injera
- To this day Ethiopia is the only country that is home to hundreds of unique varieties of Teff seed
What does teff taste like?
Nutritionally, there is little difference between white and brown teff. However, each has a slightly different flavour. White teff is known for its mild taste and delicate texture, making it a perfect substitute for oatmeal or lighter meals. Brown teff on the other hand, has a more earthy and nutty flavour.
Regardless of which Habesha Teff you choose - the nutritional benefits are outstanding.
Comparisons
PASTA
Teff Grain
FLAKES
| LOVEGRASS TEFF PASTA | NORMAL PASTA (Popular brand used for comparison) | |
|---|---|---|
| 350kcal | Energy | 159kcal |
| 8.3g | Fibre | 1.4g |
| 8.9g | Protein | 5.2g |
| <0.01g | Salt | <0.01g |
| 11mg | Iron | - |
| 180mg | Magnesium | - |
| 1.4mg | Manganese | - |
| 478mg | Potassium | - |
| HABESHA TEFF | BROWN RICE | |
|---|---|---|
| 180 mg | CALCIUM | 3 mg |
| 7.63 mg | IRON | 0.56 mg |
| 9.24 mg | MANGANESE | 0.974 mg |
| 0.81 mg | COPPER | 0.106 mg |
| 3.63 mg | ZINC | 0.71 mg |
| 8 mg | FIBER | 1.6 mg |
| 427 mg | POTASSIUM | 86 mg |
| 184 mg | MAGNESIUM | 39 mg |
| 429 mg | PHOSPHORUS | 103 mg |
| 1.071 g | POLYUNSATURATED FAT | 0.366 g |
| LOVEGRASS TEFF FLAKES | NORMAL CORNFLAKES (Popular brand used for comparison) | |
|---|---|---|
| 526kcal | Energy | 378kcal |
| 26g | Fibre | 3.0g |
| 15g | Protein | 7.0g |
| 0.06g | Salt | 1.1g |
| 38mg | Iron | - |
| 165mg | Magnesium | - |
| 148mg | Calcium | - |
