Who even thinks about split peas? I used to buy them when I was younger, but they always upset my stomach or gave me indigestion. So I stopped buying them. Sad. I never thought I'd see ORGANIC split peas. I simply had to try them, and I was not disappointed. The package says no soaking needed, but I disagree. The cooking time is substantially shortened by soaking before cooking. With the addition of carrots, celery and onions, and then some turkey bacon, all simmered 30-60 minutes, they are wholesome and clean food. The soup is also much more tasty than I recall. I'm very pleased to have this product available on iherb.