International Whole Grain Day

International Whole Grain Day celebrates whole grains and encourages people around the world to eat more of them. Organized by the Whole Grain Initiative, the observance highlights the importance of whole grains for health, well-being, and the planet. The Initiative aims to increase whole grain consumption worldwide by bringing together experts and partners from across the food system.

A whole grain contains all three edible parts of the grain kernel: the bran, germ, and endosperm. Wheat, maize, rice, oats, barley, millet, and sorghum are among the grains that can be eaten in whole form. The Whole Grain Initiative emphasizes that whole grains can support healthier and more sustainable diets, while also encouraging clearer information, education, and policies that make them easier to choose.

The Whole Grain Initiative arose from the Sixth International Whole Grain Summit in Vienna in 2017. International Whole Grain Day was launched in 2019 by a global consortium of public health experts, scientists, consumer groups, manufacturers, and government regulators at the European Parliament. Its inaugural observance focused on raising awareness and calling for whole grains to receive greater priority in national dietary guidelines, according to New Food Magazine.

The date has varied: the observance was held on November 19 in 2019, 2020, and 2024; November 16 in 2021; and November 15 in 2022 and 2023. Past celebrations have included webinars, educational campaigns, discussions about health and sustainability, and activities encouraging people to introduce whole grains into everyday meals.

How to Observe International Whole Grain Day

Celebrate by preparing a meal featuring a whole grain such as brown rice, oats, barley, quinoa, millet, sorghum, or whole wheat. Compare whole-grain and refined-grain options while shopping, and look for “whole grain” in ingredient lists or a Whole Grain Stamp on suitable products. You can also learn more about the Whole Grain Initiative and share a favorite whole-grain dish or fact with friends.

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