STRONG WHEAT premiums should justify the extra time and expense involved in sampling, drying and segregating grain, according to the Home Grown Cereals Authority.

The rain-disrupted harvest has seen UK bread wheat premiums rise sharply to over £20 per tonne in deficit regions, says HGCA economist Julian Bell.

He points out that samples cut so far have proved variable, highlighting the need for correct sampling to maximise whatever quality there is.

“Segregating grain into identifiable lots is essential to maximise chances of achieving specification.”

“With much of the harvested grain coming in at high moistures, hot-air drying is going to be needed in a lot of cases to get the grain below 18% moisture content as quickly as possible,” added Roger Williams, HGCA‘s assistant director of research.

“The latest research shows that there is a risk that the mycotoxin ochratoxin A can form at 20-22% moisture content even if drying is complete in ten days.

“And of course, for long term storage for most markets, grain should be dried to 14.5% or less.

“Grain must also be cooled as quickly as possible after drying to stop insects breeding.”

HGCA Topic sheet No.78 ‘Drying and cooling grain: an update,‘ providing a brief update on drying and cooling issues is available at www.hgca.com.