Canned Chickpeas
Canned chickpeas are found in the canned food section in the bean section. This is one of the most common ways to buy chickpeas as they are easy to use and have a long shelf life. Canned chickpeas tend to be higher in sodium (salt). You can rinse them in water to remove up to half of the sodium or you may be able to purchase low-sodium chickpeas. When you are shopping, carefully check the cans for dents or any other damage. Canned chickpeas can be stored indefinitely in a cool, dry spot.
Frozen Chickpeas
Frozen chickpeas are another convenient way to buy chickpeas. Frozen chickpeas don’t have added sodium. It’s best to use frozen chickpeas within 6 months for the best taste and texture. Again, they are still safe to eat, but they may have lost some of their freshness.
Dried Chickpeas
Dried chickpeas are another common way to purchase chickpeas, and again, they don’t have added sodium. They are found prepackaged in bags or in bulk. Dried chickpeas should be used within 6-12 months of purchase. While older chickpeas are still safe to eat, they will become drier which will increase the cooking time required. A disadvantage of dried chickpeas is that they require time to soak and cook, so they can be less convenient for many home chefs.
Chickpea Flour
Chickpea flour, made from ground chickpeas is found in some grocery stores, or more commonly, it is found in bulk food stores, ethnic grocery stores or health stores. It may also be called garbanzo bean, besan, or gram flour. Chickpea flour is gluten-free. Chickpea flour can be stored at room temperature for 6 months, or longer if it’s kept in the refrigerator or freezer.
Chickpeas in Products
One of the most common chickpea products is hummus which is typically made from pureed chickpeas, olive oil, and garlic. You can usually find hummus in the deli section of your grocery store. Many other flavours of hummus are also available.
You can also buy chickpea puffs which are a great snack idea instead of chips. Products like chickpea pasta (in the pasta section) or pre-prepared salads (in the deli section)are also available.
Product of Canada versus Made in Canada
These terms are regulated by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
Product of Canada means that the food was grown or raised by Canadian farmers and prepared / packed by Canadian food companies. All or nearly all of the food and processing used to make the food is Canadian. Maple syrup is an example of a Product of Canada.
Made in Canada means that a Canadian company was involved in some of the food preparation. A jar of peanut butter might be labelled “Made in Canada” – that’s because the peanuts were grown outside of Canada (so it can’t be a “Product of Canada”), but the product was packaged in Canada.
Source Canadian Food Focus