LEAWOOD, KAS. — Firebird Artisan Mills has introduced its first ingredient in a new crisp product line. Suntava Purple Corn 50% Protein Crisp combines the nutritional benefits of an ancient grain with a vegetable-based protein.

Suntava Purple Corn from Healthy Food Ingredients, Fargo, N.D., is rich in anthocyanins and polyphenols. Fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals in the crisp combine to nutritionally enhance items such as snacks, cereals and protein/snack bars, according to Firebird Artisan Mills. The ingredient is gluten-free and free of the eight major allergens.

“Products that visually demonstrate differentiation resonate with buyers,” said Mike Hallman, vice-president of sales for Firebird Artisan Mills. “The eye-catching, unique purple color of our crisp generates immediate association with the health benefits of natural antioxidants not present in common well-established ingredients such as corn, rice or tapioca starches.”

Bradford Warner, vice-president of marketing and sustainability for Firebird Artisan Mills, added, “We are at work developing several other crisp ingredients that, along with the Suntava Purple Corn 50% Protein Crisp, will provide customers options with protein/nutrition bars, cereals, clusters, granola and other snack applications while delivering a clean taste.”