Archived - Western Standards Committee approves standard samples and receives updates on 2009 crop quality

Using near infrared reflectance spectroscopy to measure chlorophyll

• This project evaluates the use of near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIR) technology to measure chlorophyll in canola seed. NIR technology would be used as an alternative to the current method of crushing canola and counting the number of distinctly green seeds. In the next phase of the project, the Canadian Grain Commission will purchase NIR instruments and install them in three primary and two terminal elevators. Participating primary elevators will analyze carlots for chlorophyll content. The same carlot will again be analyzed by a participating terminal elevator. The results from both points will be compared and evaluated to see if they are consistent.

Merging primary and export wheat tolerances

• This project examines the impact of merging primary and export wheat specifications. The Western Standards Committee has created working groups to examine the issue and put forward recommendations at its meeting next spring.

Fusarium-damaged kernels and deoxynivalenol

• The Canadian Grain Commission’s Grain Research Laboratory is completing a comprehensive study of the relationship between fusarium-damaged kernels and an increase in the levels of the toxin, deoxynivalenol (DON), in all classes of Western Canadian wheat. The Grain Research Laboratory is also evaluating the use of instruments to determine the levels of DON present in fusarium-damaged kernels. The Western Standards Committee has created a working group to examine this issue and provide recommendations at the Committee’s meeting next spring.

Replacing K values with percentage values

• The Western Standards Committee will review a report with recommendations to replace K values, or kernel count, with percentage values for all grain types. The report is expected in early spring 2010, with implementation later next year.

Assessing sprout damage using rapid visco analysis technology

• This project involves the Canadian Grain Commission working with industry partners to evaluate the use of rapid visco analysis (RVA) technology in assessing sprout damage. These evaluations are completed by on-site staff at locations that include port and primary elevator terminals, industry laboratories and Canadian Grain Commission’s laboratories. To ensure a thorough evaluation is completed, the Canadian Grain Commission has purchased an additional $60,000 in equipment for this project. The Canadian Grain Commission will provide the Western Standards Committee with a report of this evaluation in April 2010.

The Western Standards Committee meets twice a year to review information and make recommendations regarding the factors that determine grades of grain, and to select and recommend standard and guide samples to the Canadian Grain Commission.

The Canadian Grain Commission is the federal agency responsible for establishing and maintaining Canada’s grain quality standards. Its programs result in shipments of grain that consistently meet contract specifications for quality, safety and quantity. The Canadian Grain Commission regulates the grain industry to protect producers’ rights and ensure the integrity of grain transactions.