‘’Refined grain” is the term used to refer to grains that are not whole, because they are missing one or more of their three key parts (bran, germ, or endosperm). White flour is made from refined grains, for instance, because it has had their bran and germ removed, leaving only the endosperm. Refining a grain removes about a quarter of the protein in a grain, and greatly reduces at least seventeen key nutrients, leaving the grain a mere shadow of its original self.
Since the late 1800s, when new milling technology allowed the bran and germ to be easily and cheaply separated from the endosperm, most of the grains around the world have been eaten as refined grains. This quickly led to disastrous and widespread nutrition problems, like the deficiency diseases pellagra and beriberi. In response, many governments including our own NAFDAC recommended or required that grains like corn and wheat be “enriched.” Enrichment only adds back a small handful of the many missing nutrients, and does so in proportions different than they originally existed. The better solution is simply to eat whole grains, now that we more fully understand their huge health advantages. All miss Gorilla foods products are wholegrains
Planted, harvested and milled by us without any refining.
GRAIN PARTS
- THE ENDOSPERM The endosperm is the germ’s food supply, which provides essential energy to the young plant so it can send roots down for water and nutrients, and send sprouts up for sunlight’s photosynthesizing power. The endosperm is by far the largest portion of the kernel. It contains starchy carbohydrates, proteins and small amounts of vitamins and minerals.
- THE BRAN The bran is the multi-layered outer skin of the edible kernel. It contains important antioxidants, B vitamins, and fiber.
THE GERM The germ is the embryo which has the potential to sprout into a new plant. It contains many B vitamins, some protein, minerals, and healthy fats.
Planted, harvested and milled by us without any refining.
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