They are not the same thing. Pure oatmeal is rolled oat kernels, flat, about the diameter of a soybean kernel, and complete in shape. Instant oatmeal that has been processed is a bit crumbly, but you can still see its original shape. The oats cook out highly viscous, which is brought about by the healthy content of beta glucan in it. Its hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic and highly satiating effects are closely related to this sticky substance. Overall, the stickier the same amount of oats cooked out, the better the health effects.

Oatmeal is a mixture of various grains, such as wheat, rice, corn, barley, etc., of which oatmeal only accounts for a small portion, and even does not contain oatmeal at all. Foreign products like to add dried fruits, sliced nuts, pieces of beans, etc., while domestic products like to add maltodextrin, sugar, cream (phytolacca), flavors, etc.. In contrast, the addition of fruit nuts and beans is more healthy, can enrich the source of dietary fiber; add sugar and dextrin will reduce the nutritional value, increase the rate of increase in blood glucose; add cream is not conducive to cardiovascular health, because cream contains partially hydrogenated vegetable oils, which "trans fatty acid" components to promote the occurrence of heart disease.