Wheat germ oil

Wheat germ oil in a clear glass vial

Wheat germ oil is extracted from the germ of the wheat kernel, which makes up 2-3% by weight of whole grain wheat.[1] Wheat germ may yield 8-14% of oil in its total content.[1]

In a reference amount of 100 grams (3.5 oz), wheat germ oil supplies 884 calories.[2] Wheat germ oil has a high content of vitamin E (149 mg/100g),[2] the content of which diminishes substantially due to oxidation by extrusion treatment, oven-roasting or storage for 6 weeks.[1] As a cooking oil, it is strongly flavored and easily perishable.[citation needed]

Wheat germ oil contains the following fatty acids:[1][2]

Component g/100g
Linoleic acid (omega-6) 55
Palmitic acid 17
Oleic acid 15
Linolenic acid (omega-3) 7

Wheat germ oil is rich in phytosterols, especially campesterol and beta-sitosterol, which remain stable in content during long-term storage.[1] It also contains octacosanol, a 28-carbon long-chain sterol found in vegetable waxes.[1]

  1. ^ a b c d e f Liu, Xiaojun; Chi, Chengye; Zhou, Shengmin; Jiang, Yuanrong (2023). "Comparison of wheat germ and oil characteristics and stability by different stabilization techniques". LWT - Food Science and Technology. 191: 115664. doi:10.1016/j.lwt.2023.115664.
  2. ^ a b c "Nutritional profile of wheat germ oil per 100 grams". FoodData Central, US Department of Agriculture. 1 April 2019. Retrieved 22 December 2023.