We all know porridge as a finished product, but few know how oat flakes really come about. Oat bran is now one of the most important foods consumed for breakfast.
The flakes contain many healthy nutrients that are good for our digestion and cardiovascular system. Dietary fiber, beta glucan, vitamins B1 and B6, iron, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus and vitamin E are just some of the ingredients that oats contain.
Discover porridge from Verival
From oat grain to ready-to-eat and nutritious oat flakes
As the name suggests, oat flakes are obtained from oats. The raw grain is separated from the straw by machine. During this process the future oat flakes are freed from the husks and other inedible elements.
After this “liberation”, the oat flakes are treated with steam. The oat flakes are then treated with heat. This is where the typical nutty flavor of the oat flakes comes from.
The heat also ensures that the bitter taste is inhibited during prolonged storage of the oat bran. Finally, the oat flakes are flattened with rollers.
The individual forms of the flakes differ depending on the manufacturing process. The difference is noticeable between the large leaf flakes and the small leaf flakes. The difference is that the large leaf flakes are obtained from whole grains.
The small leaf flakes are made from smaller pieces of oats. The smaller oat flakes swell up faster later and can be consumed after a short soak. You can prepare the oat curls in different ways.
When is the oat harvested?
The oat grain is usually harvested in late summer. As soon as the oat turns a golden yellow color, it can be harvested. Modern machines are used for the harvest. These machines separate the oat grain from the stalks.
To ensure that delivery to the oat mill goes smoothly, certain quality standards must be met. For this purpose, samples are taken and checked. The individual characteristics such as smell, appearance and quality are tested.
Cleaning and sieving the raw oats
Cleaning the flakes involves removing weed seeds, but also other cereals and straw. Any metal that may be collected is removed by a magnet during the cleaning process.
Sieving the oats ensures that stones and other foreign bodies are removed. Even the smallest stones are removed from the oats so that they can be consumed later without concern. After this cleaning and sieving process, the oats are sorted lengthwise.
The oats go into the sauna?
Immediately after sieving, the oats are taken to the sauna, or kiln. Thanks to a heat of 90°C, the flakes can be made even more durable. The oats are transported in heat pipes and dried.
Hulling – separating the oat grain from its husk
When the kilning is complete, the husks must be removed from the grain. To do this, the oats are transported onto a rotor. A rotor is a rapidly rotating part that throws the oats against a baffle ring. The impact ensures that the husks are separated from the grain. A blower helps to free the grains.
Rolling the oat grains
After dehulling, the oats can be transported for processing. Two large rollers flatten and sort the oat flakes. During this process, the large and small oat flakes that we know from the supermarket are created.
Discover delicious porridge recipes now
How we use oat flakes in the kitchen
The versatility of oats is reflected in the countless porridge recipes and preparation options. In most cases, the flakes are consumed for breakfast as porridge or in muesli. But you can also eat your porridge for lunch or dinner.
With the help of delicious toppings such as fresh fruit, chia seeds, nuts or seeds, you can instantly upgrade your porridge. It is also worth trying out some porridge and muesli mixes. The Bircher muesli, in particular, is well known and very healthy.
To prepare a porridge, you mix the oats with water or milk. But it doesn't always have to be cow's milk. Oat milk, almond milk or rice milk are delicious alternatives that vegans can also use.
The advantage of oat bran is also evident in a diet. Oatmeal ensures that the metabolism is boosted and the body is supplied with healthy fiber. These are also responsible for the long feeling of satiety. For this reason, you can prevent common cravings by consuming oats.
The protein content ensures that muscle building is promoted, the cardiovascular system is normalized and hair and nails are strengthened. So it won't take long for the pounds to drop.
How healthy are oats?
Although oats are very plain, they have many benefits for the human body. Oats keep you full for a long time and are very gentle on our digestion. Eating porridge and muesli also helps to reduce the risk of heart disease.
At first glance, raw oats may appear to be a simple ingredient, but they are healthy and can contribute to a healthy lifestyle in an uncomplicated way. A truly healthy breakfast.
