Today our Kashi 7 Whole Grains inspire nearly every food we make. Each of the seven whole grains we’ve selected for our blend has its own distinct personality and role. From digestion helpers to cholesterol combatants, from diet assistants to vitamin victors, every grain offers something different. And when combined in our blend they create a healthy mix of textures, shapes, sizes and flavors. That’s why we chose them!

Barley: Known for its smooth, nutty flavor, barley is one of the oldest cultivated grains in the world. It is a good source of soluble fiber, which makes it especially healthy, and in certain instances it can help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease by helping to lower bad cholesterol.

Buckwheat: This is the only seed known to have high levels of an antioxidant called rutin, which studies have shown improves circulation and helps prevents LDL cholesterol from blocking blood vessels. Hearty in flavor, buckwheat is also a good source of fiber.

Hard Red Wheat: Used to make bread, this wheat can be described as “hard” or “soft” depending on its protein content. Hard wheat generally has more protein (approximately 12—15 percent) than soft wheat, and “red” or “white” describes the color of the kernels.

Brown Rice: Rice is one of the most easily-digested grains—which is one of the reasons rice cereal is often recommended as a baby’s first solid food. It’s also ideal for people on restricted diets or who are gluten-intolerant. The grain has a delicate flavor and is a source of dietary fiber.

Oats: A naturally sweet cereal grain, oats contain a special kind of fiber called “beta-glucan,” which studies have found to be effective in helping to lower cholesterol. According to recent research, oats also have phytonutrients called “avenanthramides” whose antioxidant properties help protect blood vessels from the damaging effects of LDL cholesterol.

Rye: The amount and type of fiber in rye helps promote a feeling of fullness, making it a good choice for weight management. The grain is also prized for its distinctive, earthy flavor.

Triticale (trit—i—KAY—lee): The new kid on the block, this hybrid grain was conceived by plant breeders who were looking to combine the best qualities of wheat and rye into one grain—wheat for its quality, efficiency and disease resistance, and rye for its vitality and hardiness. Triticale can range in color from tan to gray—brown and has long, plump kernels. Plus, it contains the protein found in both its parents and has high levels of leucine, an essential amino acid.

Sesame: Besides grains, seeds also play a role in our foods by providing diverse nutrition and flavors. As a part of our original Kashi blend, we chose this nutrient packed seed for its delicate, nutty taste. Sesame seeds are high in protein and contain manganese, copper and calcium, as well as vitamins B1 and E. Plus, these mighty seeds contain “good” monounsaturated fats that can help lower bad (LDL) cholesterol.