Similar Content to: Germ

The embryo of a seed or kernel of wheat, located at the bottom center of the kernel next to the stalk. It is covered by several layers of outer coating known as the bran layers and is the part of a kernel or seed of grain that can sprout and become a new plant. Highly nutritious, the germ provides protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals when consumed. During the production of some flour such as flour made from wheat grain, the germ may be removed as occurs when producing refined white flour, but it is included as part of the production of whole-wheat flour.