How Does Storage Method Affect Grain Quality & The Safe Methods To Store Grain

When it comes to storing your grains, you need to think about a lot of things. How will you store them? How often should you replace your storage containers? But most importantly, what kind of quality will they maintain over time?

 The right storage solution can have a tremendous impact on the quality and condition of your stored grain.

 Storing grains can be difficult enough as it is without worrying about the conditions that are beyond your control. If you’re ready to get started with proper storage, read on for some insights into which options are best for different kinds of grain, and how each one affects grain quality.

What Does Storage Method Do To Grain Quality?

The best way to understand the impact the storage method has on grain quality is to look at the properties of different types of grain; quality is affected by so many factors that it’s virtually impossible to generalize. For example, bran and germ quality is affected by the kind of crop, the growing conditions, and how the grain is stored.

Some varieties remain intact during storage, while others become more bran, less germ. Depending on how well the grain is stored, storage silos is the safe method to store grain this can affect its germination rate and quality. The moisture content of the grain can also have a significant impact.

If the grain is too dry, it will be more difficult for the seed to germinate, and if it is too wet, it is more likely to spoil.

Differences Between Grain Storage Options

There are a few key differences between different methods of grain storage, and the best way to store your grains depends on a few different factors.

Firstly, there are issues of age and quality that can be caused by quality issues with the storage containers themselves.

There are two main issues that can occur when storing grains in containers 

Container Age and Quality Issues.

1. Container Age:   This refers to how old your containers are before use. As grains are not alive, they don’t age, so the true age of the containers is unknown. However, if you store grain in containers that are significantly older than the specifications in the article, you run the risk of container corrosion, which has the potential to damage your grains.

2. Container Quality:  As with any other product, not all containers are created equal. Some containers may have a coating or sealant that could have degraded over time, and this could be slightly affecting the quality of your grains.

When Should You Use Which Method?

Different kinds of grains can be stored in different ways Bulk storage system but there are a few general rules that apply to most types of grains. 

Whole grains – such as wheat, corn, or oats – can be stored for up to a year. Whole grains are best for use as animal feed, as they don’t need to be milled first, and can be fed directly to most livestock. Because of the grain’s high nutrient density, grain can be fed directly, but mixing it with other feed is best for more efficient digestion. 

Pasta-type grains – such as couscous, quinoa, or shredded wheat – should be stored in airtight containers. These can be stored for 6-12 months and are best used as a quick and easy alternative to traditional grains when cooking.

Cereal grains have a shorter shelf life, and should be stored in an airtight container between 1 and 3 months.

Best Ways To Store Grains

Air-Tight And Light:   Proof Storage Containers:  The best way to store grains is in silos storage that are light-proof, and ideally should be in an area that is dry and dark.

 Keeping Grain In The Dark:   One of the best ways to store grains is to keep them in the dark. This reduces their exposure to sunlight, which is what triggers the enzymatic breakdown and fermentation of starches in grains.

Cool Temperatures And Moisture:   The ideal temperature for storing grains is between 12 and 18 degrees Celsius, with a relative humidity between 65 and 80%. This temperature range is best for reducing the risk of any potential quality issues, but also has the potential to slow down the enzymatic breakdown of starches.

Conclusion

Storing grains correctly can be easy, but it’s also important to be mindful of the impact your method has on grain quality. 

There are a few different ways to store grain, and each has different aspects that affect grain quality. To get the best results, it’s best to store your grain in an airtight container in a dry and dark place. This can be a lot of work, but it can ensure that your grains stay in the best condition possible.