Wheat germ oil is extracted from the germ of the wheat kernel, which makes up 2-3% by weight of whole grain wheat. Wheat germ may yield 8-14% of oil in its total content.
In a reference amount of, wheat germ oil supplies 884 calories. Wheat germ oil has a high content of vitamin E (149 mg/100g),[1] the content of which diminishes substantially due to oxidation by extrusion treatment, oven-roasting or storage for 6 weeks. As a cooking oil, it is strongly flavored and easily perishable.
Wheat germ oil contains the following fatty acids:[1]
| Component | g/100g | |
|---|---|---|
| Linoleic acid (omega-6) | 55 | |
| 17 | ||
| 15 | ||
| Linolenic acid (omega-3) | 7 |
Wheat germ oil is rich in phytosterols, especially campesterol and beta-sitosterol, which remain stable in content during long-term storage. It also contains octacosanol, a 28-carbon long-chain sterol found in vegetable waxes.[2]