We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Food

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Are Wheat Sprouts?

By Cindy Quarters
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 5,366
Share

Sprouts are seeds typically eaten just after they have germinated, when roots are still tiny and the plant is barely an inch or two tall. They are usually grown in jars or in hanging bags. They are enjoyed for a variety of reasons, including taste, crunch and nutritional value. Almost any kind of edible seed can be used for sprouting, and grains such as wheat, alfalfa and oats are popular. Often, wheat is not eaten when it first sprouts but is planted and allowed to grow, then harvested as short grass.

To grow wheat sprouts, the kernels of wheat are placed in a jar which is then filled with water. These are soaked overnight. Turning the jar upside down partway through the soaking period helps to ensure that the seeds will all be well-soaked by morning, a key factor in their ability to grow.

After the kernels have been thoroughly soaked, they are rinsed well and drained. They may be left in a jar, or they may be placed in a hemp bag and allowed to dry. The wheat sprouts must be rinsed often so that they will not develop a musty flavor or odor. They should be rinsed at least once a day, though some prefer to rinse them two or three times a day.

Determining when the wheat sprouts are ready to eat is largely a matter of personal taste. Some people like them when they have just barely sprouted, while others like to let them grow for several days. The nutritional value of sprouts is high, as they contain all of the essential nutrients the seed needs to grow into a plant. Sprouting allows the vitamins that were locked into the seeds more available to the human digestive system.

When wheat grass is consumed, the started kernels are spread on a layer of soil in a tray and allowed to grow for another week or so beyond the sprout stage. To harvest, wheat grass is cut off at the base with scissors and is typically placed in a blender or juicer, often with other foods, and consumed as a juice. Many people drink wheat grass juice every day to take advantage of its nutritional benefits.

Wheat sprouts can be kept in the refrigerator for several days, as long as they don’t get too dry or too wet. They are best stored in a container that allows some air flow to prevent spoilage. Stored sprouts usually have the best flavor if they are rinsed right before they are eaten, then quickly added to salads, sandwiches, soups or other foods.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-wheat-sprouts.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.