Learn about whole grains

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All grains start life as whole grains . In their natural state growing in the fields, whole grains are the entire seed of a plant. This seed (also called a “kernel”) is made up of three edible parts – the bran, the germ, and the endosperm – protected by an inedible husk that protects the kernel from...
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Check out our “Encyclopedia of Whole Grains” to get a quick overview of all the different grains you could sample, and a few interesting facts about each one. Then dive deeper if you want more...
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Most people find whole grains are a delicious way to improve their health, and they enjoy the pleasures of choosing among all the different whole grains. However, the millions of people who can’t properly digest gluten must choose their grains carefully. Luckily for them, most grains are gluten free.
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Consumers searching the grocery aisles for authentic whole grain foods now have an effective “search tool” – the Whole Grain Stamp. Making it easy for shoppers to spot whole grain foods helps close the Whole Grains Gap and promotes a goal long sought by nutrition and medical experts. That’s why the...
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Studies show that eating whole grains instead of refined grains lowers the risk of many chronic diseases. While benefits are greatest with at least 3 servings daily, some studies show reduced risks from as little as one serving daily. The message: every whole grain in your diet helps!

Our mission

The Whole Grains Council helps consumers find whole grain foods and understand their health benefits; helps manufacturers and restaurants create delicious whole grain foods; and helps the media write accurate, compelling stories about whole grains.

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Did you know?

Sprouting whole grains increases many of the grains’ key nutrients, including B vitamins, vitamin C, folate, and fiber.

What's new in Whole Grains

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How can we possibly shift a large swath of habitual refined grain consumers into people who desire, and therefore willingly choose, whole grains? According to new research, the answer might be as simple as just giving whole grains a try.
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One thing we have in common with these ancient civilizations is: whole grains are an important foundation of our diet. As early as 11,000 BCE, humans began farming—and quickly learned what nutritional and societal powerhouses grains can be.
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International Whole Grain Stamp use is on the rise, especially in regions like Latin America and Asia.