Managing the quality of stored grain

Unlike many other grain producing countries, Canada’s climate can be utilized to prevent serious insect infestations in stored grain. However, producers and grain handlers alike should always remain alert for potential insect problems.

This information is an overview of insect infestation and the problematic areas producers and grain handlers alike are most likely to encounter when storing grain.

The information

• Assumes the reader has general knowledge of grain production, grain storage, and the ramifications of leaving stored grain unmonitored, unprotected or both. It is not an exhaustive account of insect pest management and the possible causes and effects of infestations in stored grain.
• Includes links to other pages on the Canadian Grain Commission’s web site that will help you identify insect species
• Includes various prevention, monitoring, control, and remedial strategies that are appropriate for keeping stored grain at peak condition. These strategies are safe and effective when they are applied correctly.

The more you know about how to prevent, monitor and control insect infestations in stored grain, the better your chances of keeping infestations out of the grain handling system. The Canadian Grain Commission encourages producers and grain handlers to consider all of these strategies to identify the most effective approach to maintaining the quality of grain in storage.

When a shipment of Canadian grain is ready for export, the Certificate Final provides assurance that the shipment has been sampled and tested for insect infestations and that none have been discovered. Increasingly, processors of grain require assurances that the grain is free of chemical residues used during grain production and storage.

• To learn more about industry responsibilities associated with shipping infested grain, consult Memorandum No. 2000-13, Infested Railcars/Trucks.