B R A N

E N D O S P E R M

G E R M

Germ...about 2 1/2 percent of the kernel weight. �e germ is the embryo or sprouting section of the seed, often separated from �our in milling because the fat content limits �our’s shelf-life.

Whole Grains...whole grain products are made with the whole kernel of grain. �e bran (outer layer) contains the largest amount of �ber (insoluble), B vitamins, trace minerals and a small amount of protein; the endosperm (middle layer) contains mostly protein and carbohydrates along with small amounts of B vitamins, iron and soluble �ber; and the germ (inner part) is a rich source of trace minerals, unsaturated fats, B vitamins, antioxidants, phytochemicals and a minimal amount of high quality protein.

Enriched Grains...enriched white �our is the �nely ground endosperm of the kernel. Some of the nutrients that are milled out are replaced through enrichment. Slice for slice, enriched white bread as well as other enriched grain products, are a good source of iron and or B vitamins (thiamin, ribo�avin, niacin and folic acid) as well as complex carbohydrates. Enriched grain products have over twice the amount of folic acid as whole wheat. Compare a slice of enriched white bread with 37mcg to a slice of whole grain bread at 17.5mcg.

Longitudinal Sectionof Grain of Wheat

Grain-based Foods...provide complex carbohydrates – the best fuel for our bodies. �ese foods are often low in fat and contain �ber. Grain foods provide vitamins – especially the four key B vitamins (thiamin, ribo�avin, niacin and folic acid) and iron. During the milling process, white �our is produced by removing the bran and germ portions of the wheat. Most (95%) products made from white �our are enriched. Whole grain foods are made with �our that contains all three parts of the kernel. Nutrition experts recommend that at least half of our daily grains come from whole grain products. �e total number needed each day depends on age, gender and activity level. Visit www.choosemyplate.gov/ food-groups/grains-amount.html to determine the appropriate amount of grains needed.

a Kernel of WheatThe Kernel of Wheat...sometimes called the wheat berry, the kernel is the seed from which the wheat plant grows. Each tiny seed contains three distinct parts that are separated during the milling process to produce �our.

Endosperm...about 83 percent of the kernel weight and the source of white �our.

Bran...about 14 1/2 percent of the kernel weight. Bran is included in whole wheat �our and can also be bought separately.

Source: USDA/CNPP

Wheat Foods Councilwww.wheatfoods.org

Twitter: @WheatFoodsFacebook: WheatFoods

E-mail us at: wfc@wheatfoods.org970-626-9828

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