What is a kernel?

Image of whole kernel

Kernels are the seeds of cereal grasses. We call the kernels “grain“. The kernels are located at the top of the plant. This area is known as the head of the stalk.  We eat the kernel of foods such as corn, wheat, oats, and sorghum. These foods are referred to as cereal grains.  When someone says “whole grain” what they mean is that the kernel is still intact, ground, or cracked. 

See also Agricultural Sciences!