Finding The Best Wheat Berries: Wheat 101

Let’s talk wheat!

There are basically two types of wheat that are sold in bulk: hard red and hard white wheat berries. (FYI: the grains from the wheat stalk are called berries because they the “fruit” of the wheat plant). (We also found a “heritage” version of wheat from one manufacturer.)

Red wheat berries have a higher protein content. And yes, they look red . . . although once you mill either white or red wheat berries, the resulting flour looks much the same.

Thanks to the higher protein content, red wheat berries are better for rustic bread recipes. White wheat berries are better for softer breads like dinner rolls and sandwich bread. 

Shelf Life: It Varies!

When talking with our parent readers, we learned that some folks buy these bags of wheat to use relatively quickly (that is, within a few weeks or months) for baking or cooking. In that case, wheat berries sold in sacks (which often have a limited shelf life of 3-6 months) would be fine.

We also know that other readers like to build an emergency food supply pantry with wheat berries. In that case, we also tried out more long-term options . . . that is, wheat berries sold in plastic buckets. If stored in a cool, dry place, these wheat berries can have up to a 25 year shelf life.

Flavor: Red vs. White 

We tried wheat berries from several brands and think the red wheat berries have a nuttier flavor . . . more akin to whole wheat bread. White had a milder taste, so it might be better suited for pastries where it doesn’t compete against other ingredients.

We tried wheat berries from several major brands before deciding these were the best bets.

About the Authors

Denise & Alan Fields are consumer advocates and best-selling authors. The Fields have authored 12 books with three million copies in print, including the best-selling guide to baby gear, Baby Bargains.

The Fields have been featured and quoted in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal and Los Angeles Times.

As consumer products experts, the Fields have been guests on the NBC Today Show, Good Morning America and ABC’s 20/20.

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