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About the CGC

Grain Standards Committees

Eastern Standards Committee

Western Standards Committee

Western Standards Sub-Committees

Barley

Oilseeds

Pulses

Wheat


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printable version of this page


Grain Standards Committees

Grain Standards Committees


Western Standards Committee Western Standards Sub-Committees Eastern Standards Committee Barley Sub-Committee Oilseeds Sub-Committee Pulses Sub-Committee Wheat Sub-Committee Grain Standards Committees

The Canada Grain Act provides for the appointment by the Commission of an Eastern Standards Committee and a Western Standards Committee. It specifies the numbers and qualifications of members. The Committees recommend specifications for grades of grain, select and recommend standard samples to the Commission, and perform any other related duties the Commission may assign. Their recommendations are forwarded to the Commission for consideration.

Wide representation on the Standards Committees ensures that the views of all principals are considered before changes are made to the Canadian grading system. Grade definitions are changed only after thorough research and investigation have firmly established that meaningful changes would increase acceptability of Canadian grains in world markets.

Defining and applying grade standards

The CGC defines grading standards. Grades are assigned on the basis of visual quality characteristics of grain. Some visual characteristics can be measured objectively, while others are subjective. Grain grades in Canada are built on qualities that customers want. Because customers' needs change, grades must be reviewed regularly. Under the Canada Grain Act, the Western and Eastern Standards Committees discuss and recommend specifications for grades of grain. Once the grain standards committees recommend a change, the CGC reviews the recommendation. If the CGC approves it, the recommendation is then published as a regulation in the Canada Gazette.

Standard samples reflect the conditions of the growing season. Each year, the CGC prepares standard samples as visual guides in grain grading. The GRL tests grain samples to verify that grades have the same processing qualities from year to year. Through scientific testing, the validity of our visual grading system is therefore reinforced.

Under the Canada Grain Act, the Eastern and Western Standards Committees are responsible for reviewing the standard samples put together by the CGC. After the grain standards committees have made their recommendations, the CGC designates the standard samples for the year.

More information on grain grades and standards.



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Last updated: 2002-06-18

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