Whole oats

Whole oats are a whole grain cereal obtained by processing the oat grain without removing the bran or germ, which preserves all its fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Their texture is slightly coarser than refined oats, and their flavor is mild and slightly sweet, making them ideal for preparing everything from healthy breakfasts to baked goods and savory recipes.

Native to the temperate regions of Europe and Asia, oats are now cultivated in various parts of the world and are a staple food in many cultures due to their high nutritional value.

Whole oats are especially valued for their content of soluble fiber, proteins, B-complex vitamins, iron, magnesium, and antioxidants. Their consumption helps improve digestion, control cholesterol levels, and provide sustained energy, making them a popular choice for breakfast recipes like porridge, smoothies, granolas, and also for homemade breads or cookies.

In different Latin American countries, whole oats can also be found under names such as "avena entera" or "avena integral", although the term is quite uniform. In some places, they are simply called "avena" (oats), and it is specified whether they are whole or refined according to the recipe's needs.