MANY CROPS harvested during the warm, wet weather could be at risk from fungal attacks and pest problems once in-store, posing further marketing problems for affected farmers.

According to traders some fusarium has already been seen in wheat and barley samples, indicated by tell-tale pink and shrivelled grains.

But poor storage conditions could also lead to insect infestation and fungal toxins.

“In a year like this it makes it very difficult for people to meet the ideal storage guidelines,” said Julian Bell of the Home-Grown Cereals Authority.

Fungi and pests can affect grain stored at above 14.5% moisture, although dangerous mycotoxins only flourish above 18% moisture.

“The drier and cooler the storage conditions, the safer the grain is,” he said.

Farmers with potentially affected grain should get it sampled to avoid surprise rejections later in the year, said Paul Ibbott, NFU chief arable advisor.

“This year is going to be quite tricky for marketing.” Farmers should ensure that they agree the best destination and fallbacks for their grain with their buyer, he added.

Some consumers may not want to accept grain above 15% moisture beyond the next few weeks, said a spokesman for Glencore Grain.

Any potential problems should therefore be taken into account when marketing the crop.

“It is far cheaper to accept a lower-priced, more tolerant home than to suffer rejections on delivery.”