Rye (Secale)

Other names: lane, rye

Rye, also known as rye, is one of the most important cereals used for food production worldwide. This plant belongs to the genus Secale and grows mainly in cooler places. Its grain is healthier than wheat grain as it contains more fibre, minerals and vitamins. It is even believed to have been one of the first cereals cultivated by humans. Unlike wheat, rye is considered less demanding of soil conditions and is tolerated in drier and cooler climates.

The most famous products made from rye are rye bread, which has a characteristic dark colour and a specific strong aroma. Rye is also often used in rye rolls, pastries and rye sourdough. Another important product is rye flour, which is healthier and more nutritious than wheat flour, but more difficult to bake. In addition to the food industry, rye is also used in the distilling industry, specifically for the production of rye whisky. Interestingly, rye straw is often used as animal bedding or as a raw material for straw hats.