Husks

Usually fibrous outer coverings of certain fruits or seeds, stripped off by husking before eating — corn, rice, and cocoa being examples. The term can also mean the ring of leaves crowning strawberries where they joined the plant. Also known as hulls or shells. Husks protect the seed during growth but are indigestible, so their removal improves texture and eating quality; the by-product often goes to animal feed, fuel, or compost. Efficient husking is a standard first step in milling and processing lines.