Hulled barley is considered a whole grain because it's minimally processed. Pearl barley is is polished, a process in which some of the hull is removed. It's healthier than some refined grains because the fiber is distributed throughout the grain so some bran remains even after processing. Pearl barley products can vary: the whiter the barley, the more it's been polished. Pearl barley is what you'll usually find in grocery stores. It's quicker cooking than hulled barley, making it more popular (Whole Grains Council).