Brown Lentils

Nutrients are the building blocks for health, whether that's making sure your bones are strong or your heart is healthy, they are crucial to a long and healthy life. It can seem difficult to make sure your diet is loaded with enough nutrients to really feel the benefits but eating healthily has never been easier, and these powerful wholefoods are a great way to start improving the nutritional content of your cooking. Lentils Lentils should be a staple of any healthy diet, however their high protein and iron content make them particularly crucial to those on a vegetarian or vegan diet. Not only are lentils packed full of protein and vitamins, they are also high in fibre but low in fat and calories making them a great wholefood for those looking to manage their weight. As well as their health benefits lentils are an incredibly versatile legume, they are a widely used ingredient in Indian, Greek and Mediterranean cooking while also being a great meat substitute in plant based dishes. To prepare lentils, simply soak in water for 20 minutes, then boil them in fresh water for 10 minutes, before simmering them for 30 minutes. Quinoa Quinoa is perhaps one of the best known wholefoods in the world and with good reason. Despite technically being classed as seed, quinoa is a wholegrain that originates from the Andes Mountains, where it has been a staple of South American cuisine for the last 5000 years. Quinoa is a complete protein, which essentially means that one serving contains all 9 amino acids that humans can’t produce on their own. As well as being protein dense quinoa is a great source of iron, magnesium, potassium, vitamin E and fibre. Because of its many incredible health benefits quinoa is a great addition to pretty much any diet, but in particular it is an easy way for those on a low gluten or vegan diet to make sure they get enough protein. Quinoa is best used as an alternative to rice or couscous, and it is incredibly easy to prepare, simply add quinoa to a pan with water, bring it to a boil and then simmer for around 15 minutes before draining, then fluff with a fork and enjoy. Chickpeas Chickpeas (also known as garbanzo beans) are one of the healthiest beans you can introduce into your diet. Originally from the Mediterranean and the Middle East, chickpeas are now a staple in cuisines all over the world, primarily for their versatility and significant nutritional content. Like most beans chickpeas are high in both fibre and protein, however uniquely they also contain vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C, D and E as well as iron, zinc, potassium and calcium. Chickpeas have a wide range of uses, but they are especially important in making hummus and falafels, or as a meat substitute for those on a plant based diet. To prepare fresh chickpeas simply soak them overnight in water and then drain, rinse and boil for approximately 30 minutes. Pumpkin Seeds Pumpkin seeds are one of the healthiest seeds you can incorporate effortlessly into your diet. By eating them straight from the bag or sprinkling them straight into your cooking you can obtain a huge amount of nutrients and antioxidants from pumpkin seeds. Pumpkin seeds are high in fibre, which is great for boosting digestive health, but also rich in protein and vitamin E. As well as their high nutritional content pumpkin seeds contain a multitude of antioxidants to keep your body healthy. Pumpkin seeds also make for a perfect snack in between meals, as their fatty acids provide slow releasing energy to keep you feeling fuller for longer. Almonds Almonds are one of the most widely consumed nuts in the world, mainly due to their unique slightly sweet flavour and sheer number of uses, but they also have countless health benefits. Almonds have a very high concentration of fatty acids that are vital for promoting healthy skin and hair, as well as this almonds contain 2 nutrients crucial for brain health, Riboflavin and L Carnitine both of which can be very hard to obtain from other foods. Alongside their high fibre and protein content, the regular consumption of almonds has also been shown to help maintain a healthy cholesterol level. Organic Pitted Prunes Prunes are one of the best dried fruits in regard to their nutritional content, and if pitted are even easier to enjoy. Prunes are dried plums, and are best known for their benefits to digestive health, they have a subtle sweet taste and a slight chewy texture but their incredible nutritional content is often overlooked. Not only are prunes famously packed with fibre, they also have an abundance of vitamins and minerals including potassium, iron and vitamin K which is needed for blood clotting to help heal wounds. Golden Linseed/Flaxseed Flaxseed comes in two varieties, gold and brown and while they differ very little nutritionally golden flaxseed has a slightly more rich taste. Flaxseed is most commonly used in baking to bind ingredients as an egg alternative, it is also a superfood in its own right. High in wheat free fibre and protein, flaxseed is a great alternative for those trying to cut down on gluten. Flaxseed is also an amazing source of omega 3 fatty acids, including Alpha Linolenic Acid, which can otherwise be very hard to obtain for those on a vegetarian diet. Flaxseed can be sprinkled into both sweet and savoury dishes, or even mixed with water and enjoyed on their own. It is however important to note that as you increase your intake of flaxseed, you should also increase your water intake to around 8-10 cups per day. Oats Oats are naturally gluten free, high in fibre and protein, with an abundance of B vitamins and a slow releasing energy source, making them a truly one of a kind wholefood. The high amount of soluble and insoluble fibre in oats allows them to both lower cholesterol and aid digestion. Not only do oats contain vitamins B1 and 2, they also provide the hard to obtain beta-glucan which is amazing for heart health. Alongside the countless health benefits, oats also have a very low glycemic index and so their energy is released slowly throughout the day, which makes them very useful for managing appetite and assisting in weight loss. Oats are also very simple to prepare, simply add double the amount of water/cream to oats and cook for 8 minutes. These wholefoods are just some of the incredible ingredients you should be keeping in your pantry, and thousands more are waiting for you to discover. Whether you are using them to cook with or just as a healthy snack, it is never too late to make great long lasting changes to your diet and you’ll be feeling the difference in no time. All of these amazing nutritious foods have countless uses, perfect for aspiring chefs, bakers or those who just want to live a cleaner healthier life.

Mid-January can make us feel all a bit lost, but it’s time to get back to routine! Now the festive period is done and dusted, it’s time to get back into the flow of things. Which might mean focusing on healthy eating, keeping active, reducing alcohol intake, embarking on your New Year’s Resolutions! All this in mind, we thought we would recommend our January Detox Range! Featuring: Clipper Teas – Detox/Nettle/Dandelion These Herbal Teas can be great for Bloating, Indigestion, Water Retention, Soothing for your tummy after an indulgent Christmas. 3 cups a day in between meals.https://wholefoodearth.com/pages/search-results-page?q=tea&page=2 Together Vitamin D –This Sunshine Vitamin is harder to come by at this time of year, so supplementing in the wintery months is vital. Vitamin D is amazing for your energy levels, bone health, low mood, teeth, hair, skin and nails. Overall Vitality and certainly puts a spring into your step! This product is Vegan Friendly too! (Please consult with your GP/Health Care Professional if unsure or on any Medication) https://wholefoodearth.com/products/together-health-vegan-vitamin-d3-food-supplement-30-capsules Willy’s Kombucha Kombucha is fabulous for your digestion. The Apple Cider Vinegar version is a power packed Detox Drink, rich in natural probiotics. Customers say they feel energised and invigorated with improved digestion. Also great for Colds, Sore Throats, Hair Skin and Nails, Tummy Upset and so much more! The Apple Cider Vinegar Edition comes in three flavours: Apple, Blackcurrant and Raspberry and Introducing Willy’s Ginger Beer – Alcohol Free! Ginger is great for Nausea, Sickness, Stomach Discomfort and Indigestion. (Please consult with your GP/Health Care Professional if unsure or suffer with any Medical Conditions)|https://wholefoodearth.com/products/willys-ginger-kombucha-beer-250ml Donat Water Donat is back in stock! High in demand, this Magnesium Water is magical. Not only great for Indigestion, Heart Burn, Constipation you name it! It is also great for those suffering with Muscle Cramps, Restless Leg Syndrome, Stiffness, Muscle Spasms, Aches and Pains, Low Mood & Stress, Energy levels and may even help you sleep! Magnesium is an adaptogen and adapts to what your body needs. Drink daily for optimum efficiency. https://wholefoodearth.com/products/donat-mg-magnesium-water Wholefood Earth Soya Mince/Chunks A lot of us look to reduce processed and rich foods in the New Year. By swapping meat for plant-based meat alternatives, you will be reducing your fat and cholesterol intake and increasing protein and fibre. Two nutrients vital for helping you feel full, energised, for muscle recovery and overall health. Why not try our Soya Mince in your Bolognese, Cottage Pies, Chilli etc and the Chunks in Stir Fries, Casseroles, Curries, Salads and more! Simply rehydrate in boiled water for 15 mins to an hour depending on the texture you like and mix into your cooking! Super healthy, Versatile, Low Fat, High Protein…Yay! https://wholefoodearth.com/pages/search-results-page?q=soya+mince Pop into our Ramsgate store to see the full range or shop online!

Introducing Wholefood Earth's new product listing - Vital Wheat Gluten.Famous for the creation of Seitan - the vegan meat alternative!Vital wheat gluten is a natural protein source found in wheat. It is a powerful flour that is almost pure gluten. It is made from wheat flour that has had the gluten activated during a dehydrating process, removing all other ingredients except the gluten. Wheat gluten has very little starch content and a fantastic way of making dough elasticated. Vital wheat gluten is great for bread making as it helps to increase the gluten content of the bake. It is equally as great used in muffins, cakes and other bakes such as tarts and pastries where you are working with yeast ingredients. A small amount added to yeast bread recipes improves the texture and elasticity of the dough. When combined with water it becomes highly elastic and has a sticky like texture. Vital Wheat Gluten is a natural and very effective raising agent, helping your bread fill out perfectly and evenly, giving it more volume. It can be especially helpful for baking bread made with whole grain flours and coarse cereals. Vital Wheat Gluten can ensure recipes that require fruit, nuts and seeds, chocolate chips etc stay firmly held together and a good binder too! Brilliant for binding Vegan Meatballs, Burgers, Tofu etc. To make Seitan: Mix Vital Wheat Gluten with spices and add water to make a dough. When the gluten dough is cooked either by steaming, baked or boiled it becomes chewy with a meat style texture! See the range of sizes online and in store today! We sell in bulk so perfect for cafes, restaurants and keen cooks alike!

Happy Halloween! Welcome to October,The air is slowly cooling, leaves are falling from the trees, the outdoors become covered in deep colours of orange, red and brown, the distinct aroma of bonfires tickle our nostrils, our favourite fruits and vegetables come into season and probably the most well known event October is known for...Halloween!Halloween has been a favourite annual event for decades, beginning from Celtic Harvest Festivals.Today we celebrate Halloween in various ways, the most common would be a big party, dressing up in comedic and spooky costumes, carving pumpkins, knocking on your neighbours door for candy, the traditional 'Trick or Treat'With this in mind we thought we would share Healthy Hints & Tips for an alternative Halloween. Maybe you want to reduce added sugar from your or your families diet? Or simply to try some new exciting foods?1. Seeds - Pumpkin,Sunflower,Black Sesame seedsSeeds are easy to nibble, savoury to taste and black sesame seeds give a spooky look to compliment the theme. You could roast seeds with a splash of Soy or Tamari sauce, Salt and Pepper, spices like Paprika, Chilli flakesRich in fibre, essential fats, minerals for overall health.2. Fruit - Dried Dates, Apricots, Banana, Figs, Cranberries, RaisinsDried fruit contains sweet natural sugars, great for a natural energy boost and appealing to all ages! No added sugar, rich in fibre, Iron and Vitamin C!3. Nuts - Peanuts, Brazil, Macadamia, Pecans, Cashews We understand that Nuts may be a NO GO when it comes to children's snacks. However for those who may choose to eat Nuts, they are power packed with protein, essential fats, minerals, help you feel satisfied without feeling the need to eat more. Rich and creamy to taste, also Nut Butters e.g. Peanut butter, Almond Butter, Cashew butter are lovely to dip carrot sticks in or spread on a cracker, bread sticks etc.4. Dairy Free Chocolate/SweetsFor a tasty treat, brands like Moo Free cater for those who are allergic or choose to avoid Dairy, Soya, Gluten. We sell Mini Moo Bars, perfect for a little snack for the sweet tooths out there!Gelatine Free Gummy Sweets - Sour fruits or Cola we sell packets of Vegan sweets that can be shared5. Fruit and Nut BarsBrands such as 'Nakd, Beond Organic,Trek, Cliff, Meridian'Make healthy snack bars that give you on the go energy, they may be small but they pack a punch of slow release energy! 6. Dips and ChipsWe stock a wide range of Gluten free, Vegan Crisps and Dips. So many yummy flavours of crisps made from Lentils, Quinoa, Hummus, Corn instead of the considered unhealthier high fat potato chips.No added sugar dips and relishes to tantalise your taste buds!We hope this helps and have a happy and safe Halloween!All products listed are available online and in our NEW Ramsgate Store!WholeFood Earth22, Leigh RoadHaine Industrial Estate4032277001622RamsgateCT12 5EU

What Really Goes Into a Bag of Chickpeas... When you pick up a bag of organic lentils or a pack of almonds from Whole Food Earth brand, it's easy to assume the journey from farm to cupboard is straightforward. In reality, every product passes through layers of checks, certifications, and careful handling long before it reaches your kitchen. Quality isn't something you can taste in a single bite — it's built into every step of how a product is sourced, stored, and packed. We sat down with Isaac from our Quality team at Wholefood Earth to talk supplier checks, allergen control, traceability, and the small details that make a big difference in the food you bring home. We ask the questions customers often wonder but rarely get answered: How do we verify organic? What does SALSA certification actually mean? And how do we make sure your nuts, grains, and pulses arrive at their best? 1. Most people think food quality is just about “checking dates.” What is the one thing about your job that would most surprise our customers? Isaac: Most people assume food quality is mainly about checking expiry dates, but that’s actually a very small part of the job. A large part of what we do happens before a product even enters production. We verify supplier documentation, certificates of analysis, organic certification, and batch traceability to ensure the product meets our standards before it is approved. We also visually inspect incoming goods and maintain strict hygiene and cleaning verification within our packing environment.So the biggest surprise for many people is that quality control is not just about checking the final product — it’s about building systems that prevent problems in the first place. 2. We are SALSA certified. In plain English, what does that actually mean for the bag of chickpeas sitting in a customer's cupboard? SALSA is a recognised UK food safety certification designed for smaller food producers.For a customer, it means that the chickpeas in their cupboard were packed in a facility that follows strict food safety procedures. These include hygiene standards, allergen control, traceability systems, supplier verification, pest control, and documented quality checks. The certification also involves an independent audit, so our procedures are regularly assessed to ensure we are meeting recognised food safety standards. 3. Can you walk us through the “journey” of a product—from the moment a shipment arrives at our warehouse to when it’s sealed in our branded packaging? When a shipment arrives, it first goes through a goods-in inspection. We check the delivery documentation, verify batch numbers, and visually inspect the pallets and packaging to make sure everything arrived in good condition.Once approved, the product is entered into our traceability system and stored appropriately. When a product goes into production, it is transferred to the packing area where staff follow strict hygiene procedures, including protective clothing and allergen controls. The product is then weighed and packed using our packing machines or manual stations, sealed, labelled, and assigned a batch code. That batch code means every finished bag can be traced back to the original supplier batch. 4. What are the specific "red flags" you look for when inspecting a new batch of organic nuts or grains? We look for anything unusual compared to the expected appearance and smell of the product. Some examples include insect activity, excessive dust, damaged packaging, unusual odours, or colour changes.We also review documentation from the supplier, including organic certification and testing results for things like pesticides, heavy metals, or mycotoxins. If something doesn’t look right or paperwork is incomplete, the batch is placed on hold until it’s fully verified. 5. How do we handle Allergen Control? For a customer with a nut allergy, what steps do we take to ensure there is no cross-contamination? Allergen control is one of the most important parts of food safety. At Wholefood Earth we manage allergens through a combination of segregation, production scheduling, and cleaning procedures. Products containing allergens are clearly identified and handled with dedicated scoops and equipment where possible. Production runs are scheduled carefully and equipment is thoroughly cleaned between different products. Staff are trained to recognise allergen risks and follow strict procedures when handling ingredients. Because we pack a wide range of products in the same facility, we are transparent on our labels so customers are aware that allergens may be present in the environment. 6. Organic food is grown without synthetic pesticides, but how do we verify that our suppliers are sticking to those standards? We only work with suppliers who are certified by recognised organic certification bodies. Organic certification applies to the entire supply chain—from the farmer to the final packer. Farmers, processors, traders, and packers must all be certified by recognised organic control bodies and are audited regularly.Each organic batch we receive is accompanied by certification and traceability documentation confirming its organic status throughout the supply chain. These documents are reviewed as part of our supplier approval and intake checks before the product is accepted into our system. Many products are also tested during the supply chain for things like pesticide residues, mycotoxins, heavy metals, and microbiological safety. At Wholefood Earth we verify this documentation as part of our due diligence when approving suppliers and accepting goods into our facility. In simple terms, organic integrity is maintained through a combination of certification, traceability, and risk-based verification throughout the supply chain. 7. We talk a lot about 'Clean Label' food. How do you ensure that what is on the ingredients list is 100% of what is in the bag? Most of our products are single ingredients like nuts, grains, pulses, and seeds, so the ingredient list is naturally very simple. We ensure the accuracy of the label through supplier specifications, batch traceability, and production controls. During packing we verify the correct product and label are being used together. Because every finished product is linked to a specific supplier batch, we always know exactly where the ingredient came from and how it was handled. 8. What is 'Food Fraud,' and how does our traceability system protect our customers from it? Food fraud refers to the deliberate substitution, dilution, or misrepresentation of food products—for example selling a lower-quality ingredient as a premium one.To protect against this, we operate a traceability system that tracks products from supplier to finished pack. We also carefully approve suppliers and review documentation and testing results. This makes it very difficult for fraudulent ingredients to enter the supply chain. At the same time, many of the foods we sell are natural agricultural products that come to us with minimal processing. This means that sometimes, depending on the weather or harvest conditions, a crop may vary slightly in appearance or size from year to year. That’s simply part of working with real food from nature — and it’s very different from fraud. Our role is to ensure that what is in the bagis exactly what it says it is. 9. What is your stance on the 'Best Before' vs 'Use By' debate? How do you test to ensure our products stay at peak quality for as long as possible? “Use By” dates relate to food safety and are used for highly perishable foods such as fresh meat. “Best Before” dates, which most of our products use, relate to quality rather than safety. Dried foods such as grains, beans, and nuts can remain safe for much longer if stored properly, but flavour, texture, or nutritional quality may slowly decline over time.We base our shelf life on supplier data, product characteristics, and industry standards to ensure customers receive the product at its best.Shelf life can also be supported by laboratory analysis and organoleptic (sensory) testing, where products are assessed over time for taste, texture, and overall quality. This helps ensure products remain enjoyable for as long as possible while also helping to avoid unnecessary food waste. 10. What is your favourite Whole Food Earth product, and—given your technical knowledge— why do you trust it for your own kitchen? One of my favourites is our organic lentils. They’re a great example of what we do best: simple, high-quality ingredients with full traceability and minimal processing.Because I see the controls behind the scenes—from supplier verification to packing procedures—know exactly how carefully these products are handled. Lentils are also such a nutritionally well-rounded product (pun intended). They’re packed with protein and fibre, incredibly versatile in the kitchen, and you can make everything from soups and curries to salads and veggie burgers with them. They’re also one of those wonderfully simple foods that store extremely well when kept dry, so they’re always a reliable staple to have in the cupboard. 11. If you could give our customers one tip for storing their whole foods at home to keep them fresh, what would it be? The best tip is to keep dried foods cool, dry, and sealed in airtight containers.This helps prevent moisture, insects, and oxidation from affecting the product. For nuts and seeds in particular, storing them in airtight containers—and even in the fridge if you buy them in bulk—can help preserve their freshness and flavour.Fun fact: prunes are one exception many people don’t realise. Once opened, they are best stored in the fridge. Because they still contain natural moisture, refrigeration helps slow spoilage and keeps them fresher for longer.

In the world of health food, the word "organic" is often tossed around as a generic buzzword. You’ll see it on cafe menus, farmers' market stalls, and supermarket aisles. But at Whole Food Earth, we believe that if you’re investing in your health, "taking our word for it" isn't enough. You deserve proof. We are thrilled to announce that Whole Food Earth is officially certified by Organic Farmers & Growers (OF&G). But what does this actually mean for that 6kg bag of oats in your pantry or the raw cacao liquor in your mixing bowl? Let’s strip back the jargon and look at the gold standard of UK organic food. What is OF&G? Organic Farmers & Growers (OF&G) is one of the UK’s leading organic certification bodies, authorised by Defra. While many people are familiar with the Soil Association, OF&G is a powerhouse in the British organic sector, certifying over half of the UK's organic land. To carry the OF&G spark logo, a business must prove that every single step of its process—from the farm to our UK dispatch station—meets strict legal requirements set out by the UK government. The Standards: What We Had to Prove Receiving this certification isn't a "one-and-done" paperwork exercise. It is a continuous, rigorous audit of our entire operation. To remain OF&G certified, we must demonstrate: Total Traceability: We have to prove exactly where every grain, nut, and seed came from. If we sell a bag of Organic Quinoa, we can trace its "passport" back to the specific organic farm it was harvested from. Zero Cross-Contamination: Our warehouse and packing facilities are strictly monitored. We must ensure that organic products never come into contact with non-organic items or prohibited synthetic chemicals. No GMOs or Synthetic Pesticides: The OF&G seal guarantees that the food you’re eating was grown without the use of artificial fertilisers, sewage sludge, or genetically modified organisms. Environmental Stewardship: Organic farming isn't just about what isn't in the food; it's about what is in the soil. OF&G standards ensure that our suppliers are actively supporting biodiversity and soil health. What This Means for You, the "Pro" Consumer Whether you’re a parent trying to reduce your child’s exposure to Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs) or a professional baker crafting artisan sourdough, this certification is your safety net. Peace of Mind: You no longer have to guess if "natural" actually means "clean." The OF&G logo is a legal guarantee of purity. Nutrient Density: Research suggests that organic crops can contain higher levels of certain antioxidants and minerals because they are grown in living, nutrient-rich soil. Support for British Standards: By choosing OF&G-certified products, you are supporting a system that holds British food businesses to the highest possible ethical and environmental standards. Ready to upgrade your pantry? Look for Organic Cooking Essentials and Organic Ingredients across our site and shop with the confidence that you are getting the very best "Earth-to-Table" nutrition available in the UK - we actually call it "Earth to Pantry". :) Shop Our OF&G Certified Organic Collection