Bulk wheat is wheat in its unprocessed state and is known, along with several other similar food groups, as a bulk grain. This usually means that you buy or harvest only the kernels, and keep them separate from flour in a pantry or storage container of their own. When stored correctly, bulk wheat can last as long as two years or more, which makes it one of the most popular and versatile emergency food supply options.

Bulk Wheat

Nutritionally, bulk wheat is rich in several key vitamins and minerals, including protein, calcium, niacin and thiamine. Bulk wheat is also popular for all of its cooking options. Unlike processed flour, wheat kernels can be included in many different dishes. Use them fried garnish to salads or soups. Grind them to yield organic flour to be used as needed. You can even let the kernels sprout a little and eat the young greens to gain extra vitamins. If you are a grain farmer or have a large enough garden to grow a patch of wheat, then harvesting bulk wheat for your own use should not be much of a problem. If you do not have such easy access to wheat, then order the kernels in large amounts from many different establishments; look for them in smaller amounts at organic food stores.

Storage

While bulk wheat can last a long time, it is important to store it properly. Wheat aficionados generally avoid storing wheat kernels in boxes, because when the boxes are packed and stacked, the kernels in the corners can become squeezed together, breaking or becoming too hot and producing moisture, which can create mold that will ruin the entire container of wheat. Round buckets or simple packages are a better storage option. Fortunately, bulk wheat can often be ordered presealed in buckets, where it can last as long as two years as long as the seal is not broken. Keep your storage space dry and neither too hot nor too cold--between 45 and 65 degrees F. is best, though temperatures will usually go above this, so it is important to label your grain and use the oldest first, if you have stored a large amount. Insects are a problem, because bulk wheat will always have at least some insect life, usually present in the form of small, unhatched eggs. If they get a chance, these eggs will hatch and ruin your wheat supply, so it is important to keep the grain safe from pests. If you freeze it, the insect eggs will not hatch and moving insects will be killed. Diatomaceous earth can always be sifted through the grain, but be careful to wash off all traces when using the wheat, because it is unhealthy to inhale and can cause inflammation if swallowed.

Source:

OrganicGardeningandHomesteading.com: Storing Bulk Grain

WHFoods.org: Whole wheat

Willy Street Co-op website: Bulk Grains