ALPISTE™ | Food-Grade Canary Seed

ALPISTE™, also known as food-grade canary seed (Phalaris canariensis L.), is a glabrous (hairless) variety developed specifically for human consumption. 
With a mild, slightly nutty flavour, ALPISTE™ can be enjoyed whole, freshly milled, or incorporated into a variety of everyday recipes.

Annanda Alpiste Food Grade Canary Seeds with wooden spoon and bowl of alpiste seeds

What Is ALPISTE™?

ALPISTE™ is a food-grade glabrous (hairless) variety of canary seed (Phalaris canariensis L.) developed specifically for human consumption.

Unlike traditional birdseed canary seed, ALPISTE™ is produced from modern food-grade varieties approved for food use in Canada and the United States.

As a cereal grain, ALPISTE™ belongs to the same grain family as wheat, oats, barley, and rye, and can be used whole, freshly milled into flour, or incorporated into a variety of foods and beverages.

Like other cereal grains, it contains bran, germ, and endosperm and has long been valued for its versatility in both traditional and modern food applications.

Its mild flavour makes it suitable for:

  • Breads
  • Muffins
  • Pasta
  • Cereals
  • Granola bars
  • Smoothies
  • Plant-based beverages
Learn More About ALPISTE™ →
Product of Canada

Canadian-Grown ALPISTE™

ALPISTE™ has a strong connection to Canadian agriculture.

Food-grade glabrous canary seed varieties were developed and refined through Canadian breeding programs and approved for human consumption in Canada and the United States in 2016. 

Canada is one of the world's leading producers of food-grade canary seed for human consumption.

✓ Product of Canada
✓ Food-Grade Canary Seed
✓ For Human Consumption
✓ Independently Tested

Protein in ALPISTE™

Independent nutritional analysis of ALPISTE™ Food Grade Canary Seed measured:

✓21.14 g protein per 100 g¹
✓6.3 g protein per 30 g serving¹
✓6.53 g dietary fibre per 100 g¹
✓6.55 g total fat per 100 g¹

Protein content is only part of the story. 
Published research has also investigated the amino-acid composition and protein quality of food-grade hairless canary seed.

Learn more about ALPISTE™ Protein →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ALPISTE™?

ALPISTE™ is a food-grade glabrous (hairless) variety of canary seed developed specifically for human consumption.

Is ALPISTE™ suitable for people avoiding gluten?

Health Canada's review of food-grade glabrous canary seed concluded that it does not contain gluten-type proteins from wheat, rye, or barley. However, individuals with wheat allergy should review the wheat allergy caution statement and consult a healthcare professional if appropriate.

How do I use ALPISTE™?

ALPISTE™ can be enjoyed whole, freshly milled, blended into canary seed milk, or incorporated into cereals, baked goods, smoothies, and everyday recipes.

Is ALPISTE™ the same as food-grade canary seed?

Yes. ALPISTE™ is food-grade canary seed produced specifically for human consumption.

Can I use birdseed canary seed?

No. Only food-grade ALPISTE™ varieties approved for human consumption should be used.

Wheat Allergy Notice

Although ALPISTE™ is gluten-free, research has identified proteins that may be similar to certain wheat allergen proteins. Individuals with wheat allergies should consult a healthcare professional before consuming ALPISTE™ products.

¹ Independent nutritional analysis performed by Mérieux NutriSciences on ALPISTE™ Food Grade Canary Seed LOT#1416, October 2026.

² Comparative grain information adapted from the Canary Seed Development Commission of Saskatchewan.