What is the difference between select atta and multigrain atta?

December 21, 2025 •

4 min read

Over 75% of Indian households use whole wheat flour, or atta, as a staple for daily meals like chapatis and rotis. This common preference has evolved with the rise of healthier alternatives, so what is the difference between select atta and multigrain atta and which is right for you?

Quick Summary

This article explores the fundamental differences between select atta, typically made from a single, high-quality wheat grain like Sharbati, and multigrain atta, a blend of multiple grains. We compare their nutritional benefits, flavor, texture, and ideal culinary applications to help you choose the best option.

Key Points

Composition Difference: Select atta is 100% premium whole wheat flour, while multigrain atta is a blend of multiple grains and seeds.
Nutritional Diversity: Multigrain atta offers a broader spectrum of nutrients, including higher fiber and protein, compared to the consistent profile of select atta.
Texture and Flavor: Select atta yields softer, smoother rotis with a mild wheat taste, whereas multigrain atta produces denser rotis with a richer, earthier flavor.
Health Benefits: Multigrain atta is often lower on the glycemic index and is a better choice for weight management and blood sugar control due to its high fiber content.
Culinary Application: Select atta is ideal for traditional, soft breads like chapatis, while multigrain atta is a versatile option for boosting nutrition in various recipes.
Price Point: Multigrain atta is generally more expensive due to the combination of specialty grains, while premium select atta is priced higher than standard whole wheat flour.
Mixing Options: Many people combine multigrain atta with whole wheat atta to achieve a balance between superior nutritional benefits and a softer texture.

Understanding the Core Composition

At its heart, the distinction between select atta and multigrain atta lies in their composition. Select atta is a form of whole wheat flour, meticulously sourced from a specific, premium variety of wheat, such as the high-quality Sharbati wheat grown in Madhya Pradesh. This flour is ground from 100% whole wheat kernel, retaining the bran, germ, and endosperm. The 'select' moniker indicates the premium quality of the specific grain used, promising superior texture and flavor in the final product.

In contrast, multigrain atta is a blend created by combining multiple grains. While it almost always includes whole wheat as a base, it is mixed with other nutrient-rich grains and sometimes seeds. Common additions include oats, barley, millets (like jowar and bajra), chickpeas, and flaxseeds. The specific combination and ratio of these grains vary by brand, which is why the nutritional profile and flavor can differ significantly from one multigrain product to another. This diverse mix is what gives multigrain atta its distinct health and flavor characteristics.

Nutritional Powerhouses: A Detailed Look

For health-conscious consumers, the nutritional content is a deciding factor. Because it combines the benefits of several grains, multigrain atta generally boasts a more diverse and richer nutrient profile than select (whole wheat) atta.

Select Atta (Whole Wheat):

Higher Fiber: Retains the whole wheat kernel, making it a good source of dietary fiber for digestive health and regular bowel movements.
Essential Nutrients: Provides a strong profile of B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus, all naturally present in the wheat grain.
Sustained Energy: The complex carbohydrates release energy slowly, preventing rapid blood sugar spikes.

Multigrain Atta:

Enhanced Diversity: Offers a wider range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, as each added grain contributes its unique nutritional benefits. For example, oats provide heart-healthy soluble fiber, while millets can boost calcium and iron content.
Increased Protein: Many multigrain blends include grains like chickpeas or soybeans, which significantly boost the overall protein content.
Higher Fiber: The combination of different high-fiber grains, including wheat bran, oats, and millets, often results in an even higher fiber content than single-grain atta, further aiding digestion and promoting satiety.
Lower Glycemic Index: The blend of grains often results in a lower glycemic index, making it a better choice for blood sugar management.

Culinary Implications: Taste, Texture, and Use

The difference in composition and nutrition translates directly to how the flours perform in the kitchen. For many, texture and flavor are just as important as health benefits.

Texture: Select atta produces a smooth, soft dough, resulting in very soft and pliable rotis and chapatis. Multigrain atta, due to the presence of different grains and seeds, typically has a slightly coarser, denser texture. This can result in rotis that are not as soft as those made with 100% whole wheat, especially when cooled.
Flavor: Select atta has a classic, mild, and nutty whole wheat flavor. The flavor of multigrain atta is more complex, often described as richer and earthier, with nutty undertones from the blend of grains.
Versatility: Select atta is the traditional choice for everyday Indian breads like roti and chapati, as well as parathas and puris. Multigrain atta is also versatile and can be used for these preparations, but some may prefer its unique taste in specific dishes. It is also excellent for adding nutritional value to baked goods like pancakes or bread.

Comparison Table


Feature	Select Atta	Multigrain Atta
Composition	100% whole wheat, often from a single premium variety like Sharbati.	Blend of multiple grains like wheat, oats, barley, millets, and more.
Nutritional Profile	Rich in fiber, B vitamins, and minerals specific to whole wheat.	More diverse and often higher in fiber, protein, and micronutrients due to the variety of grains.
Glycemic Index	Moderate, provides sustained energy.	Often lower due to the blend of grains, beneficial for blood sugar management.
Texture	Very smooth dough, resulting in soft and fluffy rotis.	Coarser texture due to various grains, producing denser rotis.
Flavor	Classic, mild, slightly sweet, and nutty whole wheat taste.	Richer, earthier, and more complex flavor profile.
Cost	Typically premium whole wheat flours are more expensive than standard wheat flour, but less costly than multigrain.	Generally more expensive due to the cost of sourcing and blending multiple premium grains.
Best For	Traditional soft chapatis, rotis, and classic Indian bread.	Boosting nutrition in everyday breads, baking, and for those managing blood sugar or weight.

Making Your Decision

Choosing between select atta and multigrain atta depends on your priorities regarding health, taste, and texture. If you value tradition, prefer a very soft and mild-flavored roti, and are content with the solid nutritional benefits of premium whole wheat, select atta is an excellent choice.

However, if your primary goal is to maximize your nutritional intake, manage blood sugar, or support weight loss, the more diverse nutrient profile of multigrain atta is likely the better option. While the texture may be slightly denser, the added fiber, protein, and micronutrients can make a significant difference to your overall health and well-being. Many consumers find a balance by mixing multigrain atta with regular whole wheat flour to achieve a desired texture without compromising all the added benefits.

Conclusion

While both select atta and multigrain atta are healthier alternatives to refined white flour, they serve different purposes. Select atta offers a superior, consistent taste and texture from a single premium wheat variety, while multigrain atta provides a broader spectrum of nutrients and health benefits from a blend of grains. Your choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize the classic characteristics of whole wheat or the enhanced nutritional diversity of a multi-grain blend. Making an informed decision based on your dietary needs and culinary preferences ensures you get the most out of your daily meals.

Here is a useful guide for understanding the full nutritional benefits of different grains and how they contribute to your diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

While it is a type of whole wheat atta, 'select' refers to a premium quality variety, often sourced from specific regions or superior wheat grains like Sharbati, promising a softer texture and better taste.

Multigrain atta is often recommended for diabetes management due to its lower glycemic index and higher fiber content from the blend of different grains, which helps in the slow release of glucose into the bloodstream.

Yes, multigrain atta is versatile enough for baking, pancakes, and traditional breads like rotis. However, the unique texture and flavor may require some adjustments to recipes compared to using only whole wheat flour.

Reputable brands of multigrain atta do not contain maida. However, it is crucial to check the ingredient list on the packaging, especially for commercial products, to ensure it is 100% whole grain.

The presence of various grains with different absorption rates and textures in multigrain atta often results in a denser dough. This can lead to rotis that are slightly coarser and tend to become chewy when they cool down.

Multigrain atta is generally better for weight loss. Its higher fiber and protein content from the diverse grain mix helps promote satiety, keeping you feeling full for longer and reducing overall calorie intake.

Yes, mixing the two is a common practice. Blending them allows you to benefit from the enhanced nutrition of multigrain atta while retaining the softer texture and familiar taste of select whole wheat atta.

Due to its higher nutrient and oil content from the whole grains, multigrain atta has a shorter shelf life. It should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place or refrigerated to maintain freshness.