According to current information, there's no significant nutritional difference between "white" and "brown" oats.
The claim that there are white and brown oats is misleading. All oats start as a grain with a husk. What people likely refer to is the difference between processed and less processed oats. The color variations you might see are due to the type of processing the oat grain undergoes, not inherent differences in the grain itself. All oats are 100% whole grain and offer similar nutritional benefits. They generally have the same calories, fiber, and protein per serving.
Therefore, what's "better" isn't about color; it's about processing and your personal preference. Here's a breakdown:
- Steel-Cut Oats (sometimes called Irish Oats): These are the least processed. The whole oat groats are simply cut into smaller pieces. They take longer to cook and have a chewier texture.
- Rolled Oats (also called Old-Fashioned Oats): The oat groats are steamed and then rolled into flakes. They cook faster than steel-cut oats.
- Quick Oats: These are rolled oats that have been processed even further to cook even faster. The texture is smoother and less chewy than rolled oats.
- Instant Oats: Usually come in packets and are the most processed. They often contain added sugar and flavorings.
Essentially, choosing the "best" oat type depends on your preferred texture, cooking time, and whether you want added ingredients.
