The Journey from the Center for Bread Flavour to The Sourdough Institute

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In 2008, the seeds for what would become a global beacon for sourdough excellence were sown with the establishment of the Center for Bread Flavour. Born out of a passion for bread and a recognition of a growing gap in authentic sourdough education and innovation, the center was envisioned as a sanctuary for both aficionados and professionals. Our aim was not only to preserve the time-honored traditions of sourdough baking but also to push the boundaries of what could be achieved with this ancient craft.

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Why We Opened Our Doors

The inception of the Center for Bread Flavour was driven by a clear mission: to respond to the burgeoning need for a deeper understanding of bread and sourdough's potential—not just as a baking ingredient but as a contributor to health, well-being, and community. At the time, resources were scarce for those seeking to refine their skills in sourdough baking or to learn about its health benefits. There was a palpable hunger among bakers and enthusiasts for a space that not only provided learning opportunities but also fostered a sense of community around the shared love for bread.

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We envisioned the center as a hub where the mysteries of sourdough could be unraveled, where traditional techniques met innovative practices, and where every visitor could leave feeling inspired and empowered. From hands-on baking sessions and unique sensory pairings to our cozy gatherings by the fireplace, we created an environment that nurtured growth, camaraderie, and a collective pursuit of excellence in sourdough baking.

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Milestones of Innovation and Community

Our commitment to innovation and community was crystallized in 2013 with the inauguration of the Sourdough Library, a pioneering initiative aimed at preserving the rich biodiversity of sourdough starters from around the world. This move not only positioned us at the forefront of sourdough research but also underscored our dedication to safeguarding this culinary heritage for future generations.

The evolution of our mission took a significant leap forward with the unveiling of "Maison du Levain" in 2018. Far more than just a part of our physical footprint, Maison du Levain serves as a museum dedicated to the rich history of grains, breads, and the art of sourdough. It stands as a testament to sourdough's significance, teaching us about its unique role in human history as one of our most remarkable culinary inventions.

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Evolving into The Sourdough Institute

As the interest in sourdough continued to rise, so did the challenges and competition, prompting us to refocus and redefine our mission. The Sourdough Institute emerged from this period of introspection, embodying our renewed dedication to not only protecting and researching sourdough but also inspiring all generations of bakers and enthusiasts.

With a foundation built on Puratos's pillars of innovation, sustainability, and Health and Well-Being, The Sourdough Institute is committed to advancing the art and science of sourdough. Through our efforts to Protect, Research, and Inspire, we aim to foster a global community united by the power of sourdough.​​

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A Vision for the Future

The Sourdough Institute aims to change the world positively by promoting innovative, sustainable solutions that benefit the health and well-being of people everywhere and have a lasting impact on our planet. We are dedicated to Protect, Research, and Inspire about the POWER OF SOURDOUGH through education and events.