In 1976, Bob Quinn, having recently graduated with a PhD from the University of California, was munching on one of his favorite treats, Corn Nuts®, a snack made from large roasted kernels of corn. While perusing the snacks packaging, he remembered something from his early childhood.
While attending a county fair he had been intrigued by a large variety of wheat advertised as King Tut’s Wheat. Fascinated by the idea that giant kernels of grain could have potential as a healthy snack, Bob decided to call the producers of Corn Nuts® and try spark their interest. Which he did. Spurred by their interest, Bob began searching for the grain. After much effort he located only one remaining jar in an old friend’s basement. A sample was taken from the jar and sent off to the company. After testing the grain, the producer’s response was, “This stuff is fantastic. Where can we get more?” The answer created a new problem.
Their interest immediately dwindled when they learned the only remaining source was of the grain was one- pint jar. But that didn’t stop Bob. Knowing in his heart the grain had potential, he took that pint jar of wheat, planted it and kept planting and harvesting until he created a commercial market for it. As various markets opened up, many positive qualities about the grain were discovered. Some being its higher protein content, fabulous taste, favorable cooking qualities, and lower occurrence of issues for people with wheat sensitivities
As popularity for the grain grew, it was registered and sold under the Kamut™ trademark. Today, the grain is grown organically throughout Montana and the northern plains up into Canada. It is being sold in over 20 countries and has been used as an ingredient in over 2,000 products worldwide in everything from Kamut® pasta to Kamut® milk.
In 2015, Bob’s original idea that started it all came to fruition with the launch of Kracklin’ Kamut® brand wheat snacks. Over the last five years the popular snack has become a Montana favorite being voted #2 on the list of “Montana’s Best Road Trip Snacks”. With the emergence of online shopping, Kracklin’ Kamut® is now being enjoyed in every state throughout the continental United States and into Canada. The continued growth of the business has helped Bob to achieve his other life-long goal: the revitalization of rural America and bringing jobs to his hometown community of Big Sandy, Montana (pop. 600).