Rinsing Wild Groats before cooking is not required but is highly recommended. Even better is soaking Wild Groats in clean, filtered water for a minimum of 20 minutes, then rinse well afterward using a fine mesh colander or sieve. We recommend this because, like many seeds, nuts, and legumes, Wild Groats contain phytic acid, an enzyme inhibitor that reduces the ability for nutrients to be absorbed. Through rinsing or soaking, this will naturally break down the phytic acid and deactivate the enzyme inhibitors, improving nutrient absorption and digestibility.