Most wheat is OK, says HGCA
18 September 2000
Most wheat is OK, says HGCA
By FWi staff
WHEAT quality from this harvest should be good enough to satisfy target markets in most cases, according to the Home-Grown Cereals Authority
With about 5500 samples analysed so far, proteins, Hagbergs and specific weights should present few problems, says Rupert Somerscales.
Most varieties, even feed types, have hung on to Hagbergs well, unlike many crops in Europe.
“HGCA samples show a slight decline in protein across the south-west and West Midlands,” said Mr Somerscales.
“However, Group 1s, 2s and 3s have acceptable levels for most markets.
“Proteins in the Group 1s are at about the five-year average.
“Although slightly down on full breadmaking spec of 13%, they shouldnt cause the milling industry a lot of concern.”
Northern results are still coming in, said Mr Somerscales. “Things could still change, but there are generally fewer Group 1s grown there.”
Hereward and Shamrock share top average protein of 12.9%.
Malacca is slightly adrift at 12.6%, but early fears that it could have been worse have subsided, says Mr Somerscales.
Concerns were raised as early results were erratic.
On a regional basis Shamrock slipped to 12.1% in the north and Malacca fell to the same level there and in the south-west.
Hereward has generally held up well in the north.