Pearl barley is polished whole barley grain. Polishing removes the flower films and partially the aleurone layer, giving it an oval shape and smooth surface. Sizes: No. 1 (large, oblong), No. 2 (medium, oval). Cooking time 40–60 minutes (pre-soaking reduces to 25–30 minutes). Barley groats are crushed unpolished barley, retaining more fiber and vitamins. Sizes: No. 1, No. 2, No. 3 (by coarseness). Cooking time 15–25 minutes. Pearl barley: protein 9–11%, starch 65%, fiber 1–1.5%, beta-glucans 3–5%. Barley groats: fiber 2–3%, more vitamins B1, B2. Applications: side dishes, rassolnik soup (pearl barley), porridges, casseroles, military cuisine. GOST 5784-60. Packaging: bags 25–50 kg, packets 700–900 g. Pearl barley is one of the most economical sources of beta-glucans: the cost per serving is 3–5 times lower than oatmeal. In military and budget cooking, pearl barley is valued for its high satiety and prolonged fullness (slow carbohydrates). Storage: dry ventilated warehouses, shelf life 12–18 months.