Working to Ensure HRS Exports Meet the Needs of Customers

U.S. hard red spring (HRS) wheat competes for the top of the quality spectrum on the world market. This is due to the inherent high protein content and end-use quality parameters found in many of our varieties, the production practices of our producers, and our typical growing season environment, as well as the strength of our local grain handling and segregation capabilities. Maintaining the quality standard and reputation of U.S. HRS in the world market is no easy task and requires ongoing efforts to stay ahead of robust competition.

A developing issue that requires added focus from HRS producers and the entire supply chain is the increasing presence of soybeans, whole and partial, in HRS export shipments. The concern is due to the fact that it is a serious allergen in some countries, similar to the peanut and related allergies in the United States. While levels may appear minor, and the wheat itself still maintains a high grade, inbound shipments that exceed the allowable country level need to be stored separately and blended over time, or re-cleaned. In international markets, new ocean shipments typically take weeks to arrive, not days, so delays in planned milling sequences create significant challenges and additional costs for our buyers.

The level of soybean presence in HRS shipments varies between crop years, seasonally, and across growing regions. This indicates that all participants in the supply chain have some level of contribution to the issue, and need to be a part of the collective mitigation efforts. Producers are encouraged to take the extra steps needed to ensure grain pits and augers, as well as trucks and trailers are cleaned, when switching between HRS and soybeans. Grain handlers, railroads and export companies are also being encouraged to take added steps for clean-out when switching between crops. We realize that the challenging economics facing many commodities leaves little, if any margin, for additional labor and handling costs, but it is imperative that we take the needed steps to preserve market share with key customers.