Whole Grain Council Certification

When you see the Whole Grain Stamp on a product, you’re looking at a trusted marker for whole grain content. Introduced in 2005 by the Oldways Preservation Trust, this voluntary certification program has revolutionized how consumers identify whole grain foods. The Stamp is available in three types, each tailored to provide clarity on the whole grain content, ensuring you get exactly what you’re expecting.

The Three Stamp Types

100% Whole Grain Stamp

All grain ingredients are whole grain.
Each serving contains at least 16 grams of whole grains.
No refined grains are included.

50%+ Whole Grain Stamp

At least half the grain ingredients are whole grain.
Each serving contains at least 8 grams of whole grains.

Basic Whole Grain Stamp

Each serving contains at least 8 grams of whole grains.
Can contain more refined grains than whole grains.

Each Stamp highlights the exact grams of whole grain per serving, so you can choose products with confidence and precision.

Certification in Action

Whole Grain Council certification applies across nearly 50 food categories, making it a staple (no pun intended) in diverse shopping carts worldwide.

Categories You’ll Recognize

Breads and Baked Goods

Includes breads, bagels, cookies, and even pizza crust. Big names like General Mills trust the Stamp.
Breakfast Staples

Think cereals, oatmeal, granola, and muesli—the options are endless.
Grains and Pastas

From brown rice to quinoa and whole-grain pasta, these essentials are certified to make mealtime nutritious.
Snack Foods

Popcorn, chips, and granola bars (hello, Nature Valley!) deliver whole grain goodness with a crunch.

The Whole Grain Stamp goes way beyond packaging by guiding consumers in multiple languages (English, Spanish, French, and more) and extending its reach to 64 countries.

Behind the Certification Process

How It Works

Membership

Companies apply by joining WGC and paying annual membership dues, which scale by revenue.
Product Registration

Each product is carefully reviewed based on submission forms detailing its whole grain content.
Approval and Usage

After approval (usually within 1-2 weeks), the Whole Grain Stamp can proudly appear on packaging.

Annual membership ensures ongoing compliance, but there’s no per-package royalty fee. Regular audits maintain the program’s trustworthiness.

Common Misconceptions About Whole Grains

Despite rising trust, myths about what counts as “whole grain” persist. Here are the truths you need to know.

Multigrain ≠ Whole Grain

Multigrain simply means a variety of grains, which may all be refined. Check for the word "whole."
Brown Doesn’t Always Mean Whole

The color of bread can come from additives like molasses, not grain type.
Health Benefits Go Beyond Wheat

Whole grains like quinoa, barley, and wild rice each offer unique nutrients.
White Whole Wheat Is Legit

It’s made from a naturally lighter grain and has the same benefits as traditional whole wheat.

How to Verify Whole Grain Claims

Look for products with the Whole Grain Stamp and use WGC’s Stamp Product Database to verify. Authentic stamps display the following features:

A sheaf of grain on a golden-yellow background.
Exact grams of whole grains per serving.
The specific stamp type designation (100%, 50%, or Basic).

If a product isn’t stamped, check the ingredient list for "whole" as a keyword and avoid ambiguous labels like “wheat flour.”

Whole Grain Benefits Backed by Science

Whole grains are more than filling—they’re powerful allies for your health.

Protect Your Heart

Studies show that three servings of whole grains daily can reduce heart disease risk by 22%.
Balance Blood Sugar

Whole grains like barley and oats have a low glycemic index, making them ideal for blood sugar management.
Boost Digestion and Weight Management

High in fiber, whole grains keep your digestive system happy and maximize metabolism.

By keeping the bran, germ, and endosperm intact, whole grains retain essential nutrients, including fiber, B vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals like magnesium.

Comparing Whole Grain Council Certification to Other Certifications

The Whole Grain Stamp works great alongside other certifications to ensure your food aligns with your priorities.

WGC vs. USDA Organic

Organic includes guidelines for chemical use and farming methods. WGC focuses solely on grain type and content.
WGC vs. Non-GMO Project

WGC doesn’t test for GMO contamination like the Non-GMO Project does.
WGC vs. Gluten-Free Certification

Whole grains can be certified gluten-free when grains like oats or millet are used.

These certifications are complementary tools helping you shop smarter and healthier.

Recent Updates to Whole Grain Standards

The WGC is continuously evolving to support healthier choices and innovations.

Consumer Research (2023) shows 75% of Americans want to increase their whole grain intake.
Advocacy Updates (2025) include WGC’s push for stronger whole-grain recommendations in the U.S. Dietary Guidelines.
Global Efforts include collaborations with Food Standards Australia New Zealand to integrate whole grains in health ratings.

Dig Deeper

Your PantryPal Takeaway

Whole Grain Council certification is more than a label—it’s your shortcut to finding real, nutritious whole grains that make everyday meals better. Whether you’re picking out a favorite bread, upgrading your breakfast routine, or just curious about what’s in your snacks, the Stamp empowers you to choose wisely and with confidence.

At PantryPal, we love sharing the stories and facts that help you feel good about what goes in your cart. Choosing whole grains isn’t about perfection—it’s about adding a little more goodness to your pantry, one serving at a time.

So, what will be the next whole grain hero in your kitchen? Your next meal is an opportunity to celebrate simplicity, health, and joy—grain by grain.

About This Certification