Well, let me tell you about my experience with milling grain. I have worked with roller mills, which are commonly used in the milling industry. These mills have two revolving corrugated steel rollers that crush the grain and separate the different parts of the wheat kernel.
The process starts with the grain being fed into the mill, where it is crushed between the rollers. The corrugated surface of the rollers helps to break open the grain and release the inner components. As the grain passes through the rollers, the bran and the germ are separated from the endosperm.
The bran is the outer layer of the grain, which contains fiber and nutrients. It is darker in color and has a slightly bitter taste. The germ is the embryo of the grain, and it is rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. The endosperm is the starchy part of the grain, which is used to make white flour.
After the grain has been crushed and separated, the milled flour is sifted to further separate the different components. This process is known as bolting, and it is done using a series of sieves or screens. The finer flour passes through the screens, while the coarser bran and germ are retained.
The sifted flour that passes through the screens is what we commonly know as white flour. It is the most refined form of flour, as it contains only the endosperm. This type of flour has a lighter color and a milder flavor compared to whole wheat flour, which includes the bran and germ.
The separated bran and germ can be used for various purposes. Some mills sell them as separate products, as they are highly nutritious and can be added to baked goods or used as animal feed. Others may grind the bran and germ back into the flour to create whole wheat flour, which retains more of the original nutrients.
In my experience, milling grain with roller mills is a highly efficient process that produces high-quality flour. The rollers crush the grain evenly and effectively, ensuring that all parts of the kernel are separated. The resulting flour is sifted to remove any remaining impurities and to achieve the desired consistency.
Roller mills have revolutionized the milling industry by providing a more efficient and consistent method of processing grain. They have played a significant role in the production of white flour and have allowed for the creation of various flour types to meet different dietary needs.