Semolina Or Semovita: Any Difference?

Semolina and semovita are two ingredients that are popularly made into pastes that are eaten with traditional soups in West Africa. Even though both contribute to the variety of what we have traditionally but they are refined food ingredients. 

Some of us are confused when making choices in the market or restaurant. 

Below is some information about semolina, semovita and whole wheat.

• Semolina is made from coarsely ground durum wheat while semovita is made from semolina. So, semovita is a brand of semolina.
• Durum wheat is a wheat variety that is called Triticum turgidum.
• Durum wheat endosperm has a rich yellow colour and that is what is called semolina.
• Wheat and all its products contain gluten.
• Both semolina and semovita are refined from wheat and are fortified with proteins and vitamins.
• Both semolina and semovita have a whitish or off-white colour.
• Durum wheat has a higher protein, gluten and fiber content than other wheat type.
• Semolina is also used to make pasta, couscous, etc.
• 100g of semolina or semovita gives about 360 calories.   
• Whole wheat contains all three parts of the grain; the bran, germ and endosperm, so it is far healthier and contains much more beneficial nutrients than any refined wheat product.
• Due to the fact that fiber, a lot of vitamins and other micronutrients which are important for good health are lost during processing, the end product is usually fortified with proteins and vitamins but little or no fiber.

If you are dealing with diabetes, obesity and other health issues that require you to watch what you eat, it is better to eat foods that are low in fiber and high in carbohydrates in moderation. It is also better to pair semolina or semovita with foods that are high in fiber.

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