This iconic breakfast food is one of the most versatile cereal grains out there, you can find oat recipes for food and even DIY skincare all over blogs and Pinterest. We think it's safe to say that oats reign supreme! Interested in learning more? Keep reading to discover 13 facts about this awesome grain!
- Oats can be traced in human diets back thousands of years, it is believed that oatmeal was invented in the British Isles.
- They are planted during the summer/early autumn and remain dormant during the winter. Throughout the winter, the plants germinate to store energy. The oats begin to grow during the spring.
- This grain is a cool-season crop that needs cold winter to grow. They are mainly cultivated in Russia, Canada, Europe, and the United States. In the U.S. they are typically grown in the Midwest and other northern regions.
- In 2020, the United States produced 65.4 million bushels and over 33% was grown in South Dakota and Minnesota.
- These grains are most commonly rolled into oatmeal, used as flour, as livestock feed, and are now being used as a dairy alternative in milk, yogurt, and ice cream.
- There are two kinds of oats – husked and naked.
- These cereals have a higher protein content than most other cereal grains and are high in antioxidants.
- Oats also have industrial purposes – the starch is used as a glue extender due to its adhesive properties and is a common ingredient in cosmetic products.
- Farmers use a combine harvester to harvest the grains, which are then stored in silos.
- Oat straw is used by farmers as bedding for cattle and horses due to its soft nature.
- The grain was introduced to North America in 1602 by Scottish Settlers.
- These grains are high in beta-glucan, a soluble fiber that has been shown to reduce cholesterol, blood sugar, and increases the growth of good bacteria in the digestive tract.
- Oats are used to soothe skin conditions such as eczema and heat rashes.
Looking for agriculture, horticulture food production, or related industry jobs? Start your search here
Want more Agriculture Facts? Click here
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to get your weekly dose of Ag Facts.
Sign Up for Our Email Newsletter and get ag facts bi-monthly, plus new jobs in agriculture.
Sources:
Beef2Live
ScienceDirect
Living History Farms
Gramene