Oats

Oats are a type of grain that come from a grassy plant. They have been grown by people for thousands of years. Oats are most often used to make breakfast foods like oatmeal and cereal. They are also used in cookies, granola bars, and bread. Oats are known as one of the healthiest grains.

The Oat Plant

Oat plants look like other grasses, with long, thin green leaves. They grow best in cool, wet weather. The seeds grow at the top of the plant in loose clusters. Farmers harvest oats in late summer. Russia, Canada, and Poland are some of the biggest oat growers.

Good Food for People and Animals

Oats are full of fiber, which helps keep your heart and tummy healthy. They also have protein and lots of vitamins. Rolled oats are flat oat grains that cook fast into warm oatmeal. Farmers feed oats to horses, cows, and chickens too. Horses especially love eating oats for energy.

Fun Facts

• Oats have more protein than most other grains.
• Oatmeal was first eaten as a hot cereal in Scotland.
• You can use oats to make a drink called oat milk for people who do not drink dairy.

Did You Know?

Oats have a natural soap inside them. That is why some shampoos and skin lotions are made with oats to help soothe itchy skin.