Wheat germ oil



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

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

Wheat germ oil contains the following fatty acids:


 * {| class="wikitable"

! Component !! g/100g
 * Linoleic acid (omega-6)|| align="center" | 55
 * Palmitic acid || align="center" | 17
 * Oleic acid || align="center" | 15
 * Linolenic acid (omega-3) || align="center" | 7
 * }
 * Oleic acid || align="center" | 15
 * Linolenic acid (omega-3) || align="center" | 7
 * }
 * }

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