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15.— OAT. 



Nat. Oed. — Gramineae. 



Avena sativa. 



This useful grain is used both as fodder and 

 as human food. Tt possesses a higher food value 

 than the other cereals. Deprived of the outer 

 husk and crushed, it forms the well-known and 

 nutritious Oatmeal, which, when made into 

 porridge, form such a valuable food, especially for 

 children. In many parts of Scotland Oatmeal 

 porridge and Oatmeal cakes form the staple 

 articles of food. 



In shape, Oat Starch is very similar to that 

 of Millet, but the granules are, to a certain 

 extent, adherent in circular masses ; this character 

 is best seen when the Starch is obtained from the 

 grain without pressure or grinding, as the masses 

 are easily disintegrated, in which condition they 

 could not be distinguished from those of Millet. 



