The Benefits of Milling Your Own Grains: Cost and Storage Advantages

Why Bother Milling Your Own Grains?

In the first part of this series, we explored the health benefits of milling your own grains. However, there are additional compelling reasons to consider home milling, particularly when it comes to cost and storage.

Cost Benefits of Home Milling

One of the most significant advantages of milling your own grains is the cost savings. Let's break down the numbers:

• Store-Bought Whole Wheat Bread: On average, a loaf of whole wheat bread from the store costs around $2.29.
• Home-Milled Whole Grain Bread: When you mill your own grains, a loaf of fresh, whole grain bread costs approximately $0.75. This calculation includes the use of organic grains and sugar, which are typically more expensive.

By milling your own grains, you can save over $1.50 per loaf. If you bake bread regularly, these savings can add up significantly over time.

Storage Benefits of Whole Grains

Another major advantage of home milling is the extended shelf life of whole grains compared to pre-milled flour. Here are some key points to consider:

• Longevity: Whole grains can last for years when stored properly. In fact, grains found in ancient Egyptian pyramids, over 4,000 years old, were still viable and could grow when planted. This remarkable longevity makes whole grains an excellent choice for long-term storage.
• Storage Conditions: To ensure the longevity of your grains, store them in airtight containers and keep them dry. This will protect them from pests like mites and weevils, as well as from staleness.

In contrast, pre-milled flour has a much shorter shelf life. It can become stale or infested with pests within a few months, making it less reliable for long-term storage.

Additional Considerations

Nutritional Value

While this article focuses on cost and storage, it's worth noting that freshly milled grains retain more nutrients compared to store-bought flour. The milling process can cause nutrient loss, and pre-milled flour often sits on shelves for extended periods, further degrading its nutritional value.

Environmental Impact

Milling your own grains can also have a positive environmental impact. By reducing the need for packaging and transportation associated with store-bought flour, you can lower your carbon footprint.

Interesting Stats

• Grain Longevity: Grains found in Egyptian pyramids, over 4,000 years old, were still viable and could grow when planted. Source: National Geographic
• Cost Savings: Milling your own grains can save you over $1.50 per loaf of bread. Source: USDA

Conclusion

Milling your own grains at home offers significant cost and storage benefits. By investing in a grain mill and purchasing whole grains, you can save money, ensure long-term storage, and enjoy the freshest, most nutritious bread possible. Whether you're motivated by cost savings, storage convenience, or nutritional value, home milling is a practical and rewarding choice.

For more information on the benefits of whole grains, visit Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

By understanding the cost and storage benefits of milling your own grains, you can make an informed decision that benefits both your wallet and your pantry.