With so many confusing claims on food packages, how can I tell if something is really whole-grain?

It can be challenging to determine if a product is truly whole grain, as food packaging can be confusing and misleading. Here are some tips to help you identify whole grain products:

1. Look for the words "100% whole grain" or "100% whole wheat" on the packaging. This indicates that the product is made entirely from whole grains.
2. Check the ingredient list. Whole grains should be listed as the first ingredient, or at least appear in the first few ingredients. Look for terms like "whole grain," "whole wheat," "whole oats," "brown rice," and "quinoa."
3. Look for the Whole Grain Stamp. This is a symbol developed by the Whole Grains Council, which certifies products that contain at least half a serving of whole grains per serving. The stamp appears on the packaging of products that meet their criteria.
4. Beware of misleading claims. Terms like "multigrain," "stone-ground," and "cracked wheat" do not necessarily mean that a product is whole grain. These terms may refer to the type of grains used or the processing method, but they do not indicate whether the product contains whole grains.

By using these tips, you can make informed choices and ensure that you are selecting products that are truly whole grain. Remember that whole grains provide important nutrients and health benefits, so it's important to include them as part of a balanced diet.