How to Buy Whole Grain for Bread Making

Rye grains are milled into flour for use in bread making.

Buying whole grains for use in bread making can provide not only flavor, but also health benefits. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, the bran, fiber and antioxidants found in whole grains can play a role in preventing cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes.

Definition

A whole-grain flour is milled from the entire grain seed and contains all the nutrients found in the unprocessed seed, according to the Whole Grains Council. Whole grains used in bread making are usually ground into flour, but smaller grains such as teff and amaranth may also be used whole.

Types

Whole-wheat, rye and buckwheat flours are among the most common whole grains used in bread in the United States. Less common whole grains, which are ground into flour or used whole in bread baking, include quinoa, brown rice flour, teff, amaranth, and triticale.

Where to Buy

Most grocery stores carry common whole-grain flours such as wheat and rye. Larger grocery stores, organic and health-food stores usually carry a selection of other whole grains and whole-grain flours as well. Online health food stores are another option for purchasing whole grains.

References

• Harvard School of Public Health: Health Gains from Whole Grains
• Whole Grains Council: Definition of Whole Grains

Resources

• Kansas State University: Healthy Whole Grains