The Whole Grains Council created the Whole Grain Stamp to help consumers easily identify products with whole grain ingredients. While the design is consistent, the text and classification vary significantly, signaling different levels of whole grain inclusion. Recognizing these differences empowers shoppers to choose foods aligned with their nutritional goals.
The Three Distinct Whole Grain Stamps
The 100% Whole Grain Stamp
This stamp indicates that all grain ingredients are whole grains and provide a minimum of 16 grams of whole grain per serving. This represents a full serving of whole grains according to dietary recommendations.
The 50%+ Whole Grain Stamp
Introduced in 2017, this stamp is for products where at least 50% of the grain ingredients are whole grains, providing a minimum of 8 grams of whole grain per serving. The remaining grains are refined.
The Basic Whole Grain Stamp
The Basic Stamp is used for products with a mix of whole and refined grains, where the whole grain content is less than 50% but still provides a minimum of 8 grams of whole grain per serving.
How to Interpret the Numbers on Each Stamp
Each Whole Grain Stamp displays the exact number of grams of whole grain in a single serving. This allows for direct comparison between products, even within the same stamp category.
Comparison Table: Understanding the Whole Grain Stamps
| Feature | 100% Whole Grain Stamp | 50%+ Whole Grain Stamp | Basic Whole Grain Stamp |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whole Grain Content | 100% of all grain ingredients | At least 50% of grain ingredients | Less than 50% of grain ingredients |
| Refined Grain Content | None | Up to 50% | More than 50% (but contains at least 8g whole grain) |
| Minimum Grams per Serving | 16 grams (a full serving) | 8 grams (a half serving) | 8 grams (a half serving) |
| Best For | Consumers seeking maximum whole grain intake | People comfortable with a whole/refined grain blend | Those starting to incorporate whole grains into their diet |
Reading Labels Beyond the Stamp
Not all whole grain products use the stamp. To identify whole grains, check the ingredients list. Look for the word "whole" before the grain name, such as "whole wheat flour" or "whole oats". Be cautious of terms like "multigrain" or "stone-ground," which do not guarantee whole grain content. The word "whole" is key, as refined grains are often simply listed as the grain name.
The Role of the Whole Grains Council
The Whole Grains Council is a non-profit that started the Whole Grain Stamp program in 2005. Manufacturers license the stamp for products meeting the council's criteria, which are verified through a review process, ensuring the stamp's reliability.
Conclusion: Navigate Your Grocery Aisles with Confidence
In summary, there is indeed more than one Whole Grain Stamp. By understanding the differences between the 100%, 50%+, and Basic stamps, consumers can accurately determine the whole grain content in packaged foods and make informed dietary choices. A product with the 100% Stamp contains only whole grain ingredients, while the others contain a mix but guarantee a minimum amount of whole grains.
For more information on whole grains, visit the official Whole Grains Council website: https://wholegrainscouncil.org/
