When I first started sourdough, my main mission was to provide my family with nutritious bread that was not harsh on the gut. It has been about four years now since I started my sourdough journey and it is a never ending process of growing, learning, and empowering others to do the same. As I continue down the bunny trail for wholesome and holistic living, the more I learn that as we interfere with God’s design of nature and its natural processes, the more harm we do. This is true for the flour industry, unfortunately. After learning about the history of flour and the process grains go through before they reach our kitchen, I eagerly purchased my own grain mill so I could mill fresh grains right at home. While I am still very much a student of the craft, I am excited to share with you what fresh milled flour means, the benefits of it, and how you can use this knowledge to feel empowered to nourish your own family.

What does “fresh milled” mean?

Fresh milled flour is made from whole grains that have been recently ground and have not been sitting for a long period of time. You typically want to use fresh milled flour in your recipes within two hours of grinding it to prevent it from oxidizing and losing its nutritional benefits and flavor. There are three main parts to a whole grain: the bran, endosperm, and the germ. Each part has nutritional benefits that are very important for optimal health. Unfortunately, there is a significant difference between most store-bought flours and freshly milled flour. Commercially refined flour lacks nutrients because the germ, bran, and often times the endosperm, are removed. Sometimes, nutrients will be added back in to make up for this loss, along with other unnecessary additives. You can do a deeper dive into the history of flour if that interests you. But one thing we know for sure with all food, fresh and local is always best when possible!

What are the benefits of freshly milled flour?

Fresh flour contains 40/44 of the key essential nutrients the body needs to survive. Considering the three parts of a whole grain are vital for understanding the benefits to milling flour fresh. The BRAN is rich in fiber, B vitamins, iron, and digestive enzymes + trace minerals. The ENDOSPERM contains carbs, protein, and small amounts of B vitamins and minerals. And the GERM contains essential fatty acids, vitamin E, B vitamins, antioxidants, minerals and phytonutrients. The flavor is much more vibrant than store-bought flour, and you have greater variety of what type of grains to use. Not only that, the wheat berries can be stored for up to 20+ years and are cheaper than buying flour from a natural grocery store.

The benefits of fresh milled flour are truly endless. To name a few…it does not spike blood sugar, helps the digestive system, can help with skin conditions, improve energy, and is safe for those who are gluten intolerant.

Where to buy grains?

I purchased my grains in bulk from Azure. Other reputable companies include Central Milling and Janie’s Mill. You may also be able to find fresh flour from an Amish community near you. Take some time to do some price checking and see what is available in your area. These companies also offer ground flour if you do not have your own mill. You can also purchase wheat berries on Amazon, such as this 5 lb bag of Einkorn grain. If you are local to me, you can now order bread that contains a percentage of fresh milled flour in it as well.

Where to buy a flour mill?

I was lucky enough to purchase my mill off Facebook Marketplace. I have the Harvest Grain Mill from Nutrimill and have had no complaints so far. I know there are other great mill companies out there, but I am not familiar enough with them to name. I have also heard high quality blenders, such as a Vitamix, will work for grinding wheat berries.

Be Inspired and Encouraged!

I know purchasing a mill and getting started milling your own grain at home is an investment, both financially and with time, but I have found it worth every penny. I understand not everyone has the capacity to do this, and if that is you I encourage you to look up bakeries in your community that prioritize using fresh flour. I am excited to share more fresh milled recipes with you here on the blog.