A September study demonstrates that Ohio consumers are making a conscious effort to include more wheat and wheat products in their diets. A notable 55% of the 200 citizens surveyed are deliberately consuming wheat on a day-to-day basis.

Wheat is America's most consumed grain and is also the principal ingredient of flour.

"Ohio's wheat farmers have an ample supply to meet demand," says Mark Wachtman, president of the Ohio Wheat Growers Association. "Ohio produced 46 million bushels this year. Wheat has already been planted this fall and we are optimistic that production will increase in 2011." 

All grains begin as whole grains. If all three parts of the original grain – the germ, bran and endosperm – remain in their original proportions after milling, the end product still qualifies as a whole grain.

Wheat contains large amounts of protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Research has shown its influence in reducing the risk of diabetes, breast cancer, gallstones, inflammation and several cardiovascular conditions.

Consider these wheat facts:

Wheat is the fourth-leading U.S. field crop and the nation's third-leading export crop.

The survey, conducted by Governing Dynamic, an independent, public opinion research firm, questioned 200 random state citizens about their thoughts regarding farming. It has a margin of error of +/- 7.1 percent with 95% confidence.