The Wide World of Sorghum: Meet the Gluten-Free Grain Quietly Taking Over Grocery Shelves

United Sorghum Checkoff’s Lanier Dabruzzi joins us to discuss National Sorghum Month, consumer awareness, and the increasing demand for sorghum used in gluten-free snacks.

LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS)Sorghum is gaining wider visibility in the food industry as demand continues to grow for gluten-free and nutrient-dense ingredients, with the crop appearing in everything from cereals and snacks to baked goods and beverages.

June is National Sorghum Month, and industry leaders are using the moment to highlight the crop’s versatility, nutrition, and value to producers. Lanier Dabruzzi with the United Sorghum Checkoff Program joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to discuss where consumers are most likely to encounter sorghum in everyday foods and why awareness of the grain continues to expand.

Dabruzzi pointed to the growing list of mainstream food products that now include sorghum, especially in the gluten-free category. She noted that consumers may already be eating sorghum without realizing it, as it is increasingly used in cereals, snack bars, baking mixes, breads, and newer product innovations across major food brands.

She also discussed the nutritional profile of sorghum, highlighting its protein and fiber content, as well as its naturally occurring antioxidants. She said those attributes make it attractive for consumers focused on digestive health, blood sugar management, and overall wellness, while also supporting innovation in functional food development.

Dabruzzi further explained the “The Wide World of Sorghum” campaign, which showcases the grain’s global culinary uses. She said sorghum is featured in a wide range of international dishes and formats, underscoring its adaptability across cuisines and its potential for continued growth in the U.S. market.

For first-time users, Dabruzzi recommended starting with simple preparations of cooked sorghum as a base grain for bowls, soups, or meal-prep dishes, noting that it holds its texture well throughout the week and can also be used in flour-based baking or popped snacks.

Related Stories
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney joins us to discuss the latest developments surrounding the Trump/Xi summit, what the negotiations could mean for U.S. agriculture, and
trade enforcement concerns.
Huma Chief Sales and Marketing Officer Fred Nichols joins us to discuss rising interest in carbon-based products, soil health strategies, and fertilizer cost concerns.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer discusses SDRP payment limits and offers advice for those seeking higher limits.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Kubota Tractor Company President and Army National Guard Veteran Alex Woods discusses the company’s Military Appreciation Month initiatives and long-term support programs for veterans in agriculture.
Dr. Jeffrey Gold explains how springtime brings seasonal changes to agricultural operations and, with them, renewed concerns about safety, allergies, and mental health this week on Rural Health Matters.
ASFMRA’s Dennis Reyman joined us to discuss planting progress, crop trends, grain movement, and farmland market activity in Iowa.
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney joins us to discuss Canada’s advisory committee and the upcoming USMCA review and its potential impact on agriculture.
The massive Morill wildfire left Nebraska ranchers facing major losses, as relief funds and federal aid step in to support recovery efforts.