By Scout Nelson
Grain quality, particularly in wheat, is influenced by various factors, and protein content is one of the most significant. However, while protein can potentially earn a price premium for sellers, many grain elevators only offer a single, commodity-based price for wheat, not factoring in protein content. Protein levels are often measured at the elevator, with higher proteins being segregated and marketed through channels that provide premiums to the elevator rather than the farmer.
Farmers can store their wheat on their farms to segregate and sell higher-protein wheat directly, but not all have the storage or time to do so. In response to this issue, Kansas Farm Bureau's Wheat Advisory Committee proposed a policy to the Kansas Department of Agriculture.
The policy suggests that protein analyzers should be included in the list of devices inspected by the department, and that grain merchandisers should be required to inform farmers about the protein levels of their wheat at delivery. This policy does not require merchandisers to pay a premium but simply to provide the protein information, similar to how moisture content is communicated.
By knowing the protein levels of their wheat, farmers can make better decisions to improve their crop quality and potentially earn premiums when available. The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) also supports efforts to improve grain standards, including research into advanced technologies for testing grain quality, such as protein and oil content.
Wheat quality includes characteristics like grain size, shape, color, and protein content, with protein being particularly important due to its role in gluten formation, which affects bread-making quality. Protein content is influenced by factors like soil nitrogen, fertilization practices, and climate conditions. High nitrogen levels generally result in higher protein content, while weather conditions during the growing season can impact protein levels.
Overall, understanding protein content is vital for both farmers and the grain market, as it can influence wheat quality, pricing, and the potential for higher profits.
Photo Credit: kansas-farm-bureau
Categories: Kansas, Crops, Wheat