Sorbiittali

Sorbiittali is a rare and unusual type of hulled barley that is native to the southern regions of Finland. The name "sorbiittali" is Finnish and literally translates to " sorrel barley".

The most notable characteristic of sorbiittali is its distinctive red or reddish-brown tint, which is the result of a high concentration of anthocyanins in the grain. Anthocyanins are a type of pigment that is responsible for the red, purple, or blue colors found in many fruits and flowers. The presence of anthocyanins in sorbiittali gives it a unique and striking appearance.

Sorbiittali is primarily grown in small-scale, organic farming operations in southern Finland, particularly in the regions of Uusimaa and Varsinais-Suomi. The grain is considered a specialty crop and is prized for its rich flavor and exceptional nutritional properties. Sorbiittali is high in fiber and contains a number of essential minerals such as manganese, phosphorus, and magnesium.

Traditionally, sorbiittali was used in the production of hydraulic mortar, a type of specialized concrete made from a mixture of lime, water, and other ingredients. However, due to its rarity and high demand, sorbiittali is now more commonly used as an ingredient in specialty food products, such as gluten-free flours and naturally-colored dietary supplements.

Efforts have been made to breed and cultivate sorbiittali more widely, particularly in other parts of Finland and Europe. However, the cultivation and harvest of sorbiittali remains a labor-intensive and time-consuming process, and the grain remains a highly sought-after and expensive commodity.