Does Publix Sell Wheat Germ? Your Guide to Finding it In-Store

January 12, 2026 •

3 min read

According to Publix delivery service listings, Publix stores do sell wheat germ, a nutrient-rich part of the wheat kernel known for its nutty flavor. This powerhouse ingredient, often found in the baking or health foods section, adds protein, fiber, and vitamins to many recipes.

Quick Summary

Publix carries wheat germ, typically located in either the baking aisle alongside flours or in the health foods section. The most commonly stocked brand is Kretschmer, available in toasted form. Use this guide to find the product, understand the difference between toasted and raw versions, and get tips for proper storage and use in recipes.

Key Points

Location: Wheat germ is sold at Publix and is typically found in either the baking aisle or the dedicated health foods section.
Availability: Common brands include Kretschmer Toasted Wheat Germ, which is often found in vacuum-sealed glass jars.
Storage: Due to its high oil content, wheat germ must be refrigerated after opening to prevent it from going rancid.
Nutritional Value: Wheat germ is packed with protein, fiber, vitamins (especially E), and minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc.
Uses: It can be added to smoothies, yogurt, cereals, or used in baking and as a binder in dishes like meatloaf.
Toasted vs. Raw: Toasted wheat germ has a nuttier flavor and is more shelf-stable than its raw counterpart, which should always be refrigerated.

Yes, Publix Stocks Wheat Germ (Here's Where to Look)

While not as prominent as flour or sugar, wheat germ is a specialty item that many health-conscious shoppers seek out. Fortunately, the answer to the question, "Does Publix sell wheat germ?" is a definitive yes. Finding it, however, requires knowing where to look, as it's not always in the most obvious location.

Locating Wheat Germ in Your Local Publix

In most Publix locations, you will find wheat germ in one of two places:

The Baking Aisle: Often situated with other specialty baking goods like flaxseed meal, wheat bran, and various flours. It is typically in a jar or a box, not in the bulk bin section.
The Health Foods or Natural Foods Section: Many modern grocery stores, including Publix, have dedicated health food sections. Look for it here alongside other natural cereals, grains, and dietary supplements.

If you are unable to find it, asking a store associate is always the fastest method. They can pinpoint the exact aisle, as store layouts can vary by location.

Popular Brands You Might Find

While stock can fluctuate, Publix commonly carries the Kretschmer brand of toasted wheat germ. The vacuum-sealed glass jar helps ensure freshness, and it’s a widely recognized brand for this product. You might also find other brands, such as Bob's Red Mill, particularly if you are shopping at a Publix GreenWise Market.

Raw vs. Toasted Wheat Germ: What's the Difference?

When you find wheat germ, you may notice it comes in both raw and toasted varieties. While both are nutritious, there are key differences in flavor, use, and storage.


Feature	Raw Wheat Germ	Toasted Wheat Germ
Flavor	Mild, subtle nutty taste.	Richer, more pronounced nutty flavor due to heat processing.
Nutrient Profile	Contains slightly higher levels of some nutrients that can be sensitive to heat, though the difference is minimal.	A 1993 study showed that roasting improved protein digestibility.
Storage	Prone to spoilage due to higher oil content. Must be refrigerated or frozen to prevent it from going rancid.	More shelf-stable because heat processing helps to prevent oxidation. Still best to refrigerate after opening.
Best Uses	Ideal for uncooked applications like smoothies, yogurt, or cold cereals where you want a less pronounced flavor.	Excellent for baking, sprinkling on hot cereal, or using as a breading replacement where its nutty taste shines.

Creative Ways to Use Wheat Germ

Wheat germ is incredibly versatile. Here are just a few ideas for how to incorporate this nutritional boost into your diet:

Baking: Replace up to half a cup of flour with wheat germ in recipes for cookies, muffins, pancakes, or bread to increase fiber and protein.
Smoothies and Yogurt: Add a couple of tablespoons to your morning smoothie or mix it into your yogurt for added texture and nutrients.
Cereal Topping: Sprinkle it over hot or cold cereal to add a satisfying crunch and nutritional value.
Breading Replacement: Use it as a healthier, more flavorful breading for chicken or fish.
Meatloaf and Meatballs: Substitute breadcrumbs with wheat germ to act as a binder in meatloaf or meatballs.

Proper Storage is Key

Because of its healthy, unsaturated fat content, wheat germ is susceptible to going rancid if not stored correctly. To ensure maximum freshness and nutritional potency, follow these steps:

Refrigerate After Opening: This is the most crucial step. Once you break the vacuum seal, the product should be kept in the refrigerator.
Use an Airtight Container: If the original packaging isn't airtight, transfer the wheat germ to a sealed container to prevent moisture and air exposure.
Check for Expiration: Always check the best-by date and use the product before it expires for the best quality.

Conclusion: Your Nutritional Boost is at Publix

In summary, Publix does sell wheat germ, and it is a convenient source for this nutrient-dense ingredient. Look for it in the baking or health foods aisle, and expect to find popular toasted varieties like Kretschmer. By incorporating wheat germ into your meals, you can easily enhance the nutritional profile of your favorite foods. Just remember to store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and potent.

For more information on the health benefits and uses of wheat germ, visit the Bob's Red Mill website: Bob's Red Mill Natural Foods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Publix most commonly carries Kretschmer Toasted Wheat Germ, found in a vacuum-sealed glass jar. Brands can vary, so you might also find others like Bob's Red Mill, particularly at Publix GreenWise Market locations.

You should check two areas: the baking aisle, near flours and other specialty ingredients, and the dedicated health foods section. If you can't find it, a store employee can help.

Yes, it is crucial to refrigerate wheat germ after opening. It contains healthy oils that can turn rancid at room temperature, which will degrade both the flavor and nutritional value.

Yes, wheat germ makes an excellent and nutritious substitute for breadcrumbs. Its nutty flavor works well as a coating for chicken, fish, or as a binder in meatballs and meatloaf.

Wheat germ has a mildly nutty flavor. The toasted variety is richer and more pronounced, while the raw version has a more subtle, delicate taste.

You can add wheat germ to your diet in many ways. Try sprinkling it on yogurt, oatmeal, or cold cereal. You can also mix it into smoothies or substitute a portion of the flour in baking recipes.

The best choice depends on your preference. Toasted wheat germ has a stronger nutty flavor and is more shelf-stable, while raw wheat germ has a milder taste and is preferred for uncooked applications. Both are highly nutritious.

Wheat germ is a part of the whole grain. During the milling process for white flour, the germ and bran are removed, but in whole wheat flour, they are retained. Wheat germ is sold separately to boost nutritional content.