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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Whole Wheat and Whole Grain?

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The main difference between whole wheat and whole grain is that whole wheat is reserved for products using the entire wheat kernel, while whole grain is an umbrella term for all types of grains in their whole form. Both whole wheat and whole grains contain all three components of the grain kernel, which are the bran, germ, and endosperm, and are equally nutritious.

Whole wheat refers to the entire wheat kernel, while whole grains include all types of grains in their original form, such as barley, oats, corn, and rice. Whole grains often contain more fiber than whole wheat, making them potentially healthier. However, 100% whole wheat can also be considered a whole grain.

When shopping for healthier options, it is essential to look for "100% whole grain" or "100% whole wheat" labels on the products. Refined grain products usually have the nutritious bran and germ removed during processing, making them less nutritious options. In summary:

  • Whole wheat: Products that use the entire wheat kernel, containing all three components of the grain.
  • Whole grain: An umbrella term for all types of grains in their whole form, including wheat, barley, oats, corn, and rice.
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  • What is the Difference Between Whole Wheat and Whole Grain?
  • Comparative Table: Whole Wheat vs Whole Grain

    • Comparative Table: Whole Wheat vs Whole Grain

    Here is a table showing the difference between whole wheat and whole grain:

    Term Definition Type of Grain Whole Grain? Whole Wheat?
    Whole Grain Made from the entire kernel of any cereal grain, such as amaranth, barley, corn, millet, quinoa, rice, rye, sorghum, teff, triticale, and wheat. Yes No
    Whole Wheat Made from the entire wheat kernel, including the bran, germ, and endosperm. No Yes Yes
    White Flour Mostly the endosperm portion of the grain kernel; lacks bran and germ. No No No

    • Whole Grain: This term refers to products made from one or more grains (such as wheat, oats, rice, corn, barley, millet, rye, etc.) and includes the entire grain kernel: bran, germ, and endosperm. Examples include whole-grain bread and 100% whole-grain products.

    • Whole Wheat: This term refers specifically to products made from the entire wheat kernel, including the bran, germ, and endosperm. Examples include whole wheat bread and 100% whole wheat products.

    Both whole grain and whole wheat products are nutritious and contain all three components of a grain kernel: bran, germ, and endosperm. However, whole grain products include a variety of grains, while whole wheat products are specific to the wheat plant.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.