Spelt grains should be washed thoroughly under cold running water, and then soaked for 12 hours in cold water, changing the water a couple of times. In the case of pearled spelt 30-40 minutes of soaking is enough. Also, it should be kept in a cool, dry place; sealed glass containers are ideal. The best places to buy it from are organic and wholefood shops.

Spelt is good for people with high cholesterol, for those on a slimming diet and for diabetics, because it avoids sharp swings in blood sugar; highly refreshing, it is particularly well suited to summer dining.