MIDDLINGS

Wheat middlings are various components of the wheat kernel. During the milling process to make flour, the mill will remove as much starch as possible from each individual wheat kernel. The remaining components are the wheat middlings and are made up of:

• Bran. Wheat bran is the outer protective layer of the wheat kernel. It can be rich in dietary fiber, including cellulose and hemicellulose. Both are digestible by the horse. It also can be a good source of vitamins and minerals. This could include the B vitamins (including niacin and riboflavin), iron, magnesium, and phosphorus.
• Germ. The germ is what is considered the “embryo” of the wheat kernel. It contains such nutrients like healthy fats, vitamins like Vitamin E, minerals such as zinc and selenium, and even antioxidants.
• Endosperm. Wheat middlings may have some endosperm, which is the starch (carbohydrate) part of the kernel. Most of this is removed during milling, but may vary in how much carbohydrates and protein it has.

The nutritional content of wheat middlings can vary depending on factors such as the milling process and specific type of wheat used. When looking at exact nutritional content, on average, per 100 grams, wheat middlings generally provide:

• Protein, 15-16 grams
• Fat, 2-4 grams
• Carbohydrates, 72-75 grams
• Fiber, 10-15 grams
• Calories, 335 – 350 calories
• Vitamins: B vitamins to include niacin, riboflavin, and thiamine. May also contain Vitamin E and other trace vitamins.
• Minerals: iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and selenium.

It is important to remember that the specific nutrient content will depend heavily on the source and process of how the wheat was milled. Regardless of the exact content, wheat middlings are an excellent source of nutrients for horses.