Description
Oats have been cultivated for thousands of years and are believed to have originated in the Fertile Crescent. They were a staple food of ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans, and were also used for medicinal purposes. Oats were brought to North America by European settlers in the 17th century, and their cultivation spread rapidly.
Food grade whole oats refer to the minimally processed, unrefined oats that retain their bran, germ, and endosperm, making them a whole grain. The inedible outer hull has been mechanically removed. This process can damage the germ of the oats making them unsuitable for sprouting.
Whole grain oats, referred to as groats are a good source of essential nutrients, including carbohydrates, dietary fiber, protein, and various vitamins and minerals such as manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, and B vitamins. Their high fiber content, provides both soluble and insoluble fiber, contributing to various health benefits, including heart health, blood sugar management and digestive health. Oats have a relatively low glycemic index compared to many other carbohydrate-rich foods.
Whole grain oats have a wide range of uses due to their nutritional value and versatility. Whole oats can be soaked and/or cooked for breakfast cereal, soaked and added to smoothies or processed into oat milk. They can also be ground into flour or processed into flakes with one of the domestic flakers we have available for purchase. Ideally, whole oat groats would be flaked on demand to preserve their nutritional content before oxidation begins.
However you chose to use oats they are a versatile, nutritious, whole grain offering endless preparation possibilities.