Its simplicity and beauty transcend reality and take on an almost spiritual meaning. You may be transported back to your childhood with memories of sun-filled days spent outdoors, or you might be reminded of the first time you saw any of Van Gogh's spectacular sunflower creations. Historically speaking, the sunflower has been traced to remains found in North American archaeological sites dating back to 3000 B.C. Native American tribes used sunflower meal and seeds to make bread and as an addition to vegetable dishes. In the 1500's, the plant was introduced to Europe by Spanish explorers returning home from their journeys to North America. It was widely used as an ornamental plant in Europe, but upon reaching Russia, was once again considered to be a source of food.
Today there are two types of commercially-grown sunflowers in the United States.
The oilseed variety produce seeds that are very high in oil content. Sunflower oil is considered to be the preferred cooking oil in many countries because of its low level of saturated fat, neutral taste and ability to withstand high cooking temperatures. Sunflower meal, used as animal feed, is also produced from oilseed sunflowers. The second variety, confectionery sunflowers, produce larger black and white striped seeds which are prepared by roasting and salting. These seeds are eaten as a snack or added to other foods such as cereals and breads.