Whole grain vs. whole wheat

Primo has a new GrainWise line of pasta that contains 100 per cent whole grain durum. This durum will come from Western Canadian wheat growers exclusively, which will be highlighted on the packaging. Safeway and other stores that carry Primo pasta will have  GrainWise signage in a few weeks, and you'll see the new GrainWise  packaging in two or three months.

          GrainWise 100 per cent whole grain pastas will be different from whole wheat pastas already on the market, says Primo COO John Porco. That's because "whole wheat" is usually reconstructed from the separate components: white flour, bran and germ. "Whole grain" pasta is made from the whole durum endosperm only. It will be darker than the standard "white pasta," Porco says, but not as dark brown as whole wheat pastas.

          Primo is the only major pasta maker in Canada that has its own mill. For this reason, it buys directly from the Canadian Wheat Board. I asked Porco whether Primo's relationship with Western Canadian farmers will change if the CWB disbands. His answer: "Our relationship with the CWB is very good. They deliver a great quality product and on time. I don't know how it would get any better under a different system."