The germ of the wheat kernel consists of the root and shoot, and makes up 2 percent of the total weight of the wheat grain. This is the part of the grain that germinates and grows into a new wheat plant. Wheat germ is rich in several essential nutrients, and is often used in baking and cooking, adding substantial nutritional value. Wheat germ can also be sprinkled on a variety of foods, adding taste and texture.
Whole Grains
When a package states, "whole-grain wheat," it means the entire grain was milled and used in the ingredients. This includes the endosperm or fleshy center of the grain, the germ or embryo of the grain, and the hard shell covering, called the bran. When wheat is milled or ground, the bran and the germ are removed, leaving the endosperm behind. This process strips a majority of the nutrients from the wheat grain. Wheat germ consists of the germ alone, which is milled into a rough texture, different from the fine texture of wheat flour.
Packaging and Purchasing
Wheat germ can be found on your grocer's shelf, in a vacuum-packed, dark glass container. The container protects the wheat germ from becoming rancid because of its oil content. The dark glass protects the wheat germ from the overhead lighting. You can also find wheat germ in the refrigerated section of your grocer, protecting it from becoming rancid. When buying raw wheat germ, it is best to purchase only what you can use in a week or two, because of its short shelf life.
As a Health Food
Sprinkling toasted or raw wheat germ on your cereal, in salads and on casseroles adds a nutty, crunchy taste you are sure to love. Packed into those small crunchy, nutty grains are several B complex vitamins, vitamin E, folate, iron, copper, magnesium, manganese, calcium and phosphorus. One quarter cup of wheat germ provides 12 g of protein, and is a rich source of several essential fatty acids and fiber.
Popular Brands
Quaker Kretschmer Original Toasted Wheat Germ is one popular brand. It contains wheat germ, vitamin E acetate and folic acid. One 2-tbsp. serving provides 50 calories, 1 g of fat, 140 mg of potassium, 6 g of total carbohydrates, 2 g of dietary fiber, 1 g of sugars and 4 g of protein. Another brand is Bob's Red Mill Natural Raw Wheat Germ. Two tbsp. of Bob's Wheat Germ provides 60 calories, 1.5 g of total fat, 9 g of total carbohydrates, with 2 g of dietary fiber, 2 g of sugars and 4 g of protein.
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