May 23, 2014 – Winnipeg, Manitoba – Canadian Grain Commission
Updated tolerances for Ergot and Sclerotinia for most classes of wheat take effect in Eastern Canada on July 1, 2014, and in Western Canada on August 1, 2014. As well, new tolerances for Fusarium-damaged kernels take effect for Barley, Canada Eastern/Western Food. The grade schedule for Oats, Canada Eastern will be updated to be a closer match to that of Oats, Canada Western. These changes are based on recommendations made to the Canadian Grain Commission by the Western Standards Committee and the Eastern Standards Committee at their meetings in April.
“These grading changes are not only uniform between Eastern and Western Canada, they also ensure Canada’s grain continues to uphold its reputation for quality and safety.”
- Elwin Hermanson, Chief Commissioner, Canadian Grain Commission
“While Sclerotinia is not toxic like Ergot, we keep the tolerances the same for both because Sclerotinia is very similar in appearance to Ergot. By keeping tolerances the same for both of these grading factors, we can mitigate risk caused by any potential confusion between the two.”
- Daryl Beswitherick, Program Manager, Quality Assurance Standards, Canadian Grain Commission
Randy Dennis
Chief Grain Inspector for Canada
Canadian Grain Commission
204-983-2780
randy.dennis@grainscanada.gc.ca
The Canadian Grain Commission is the federal agency responsible for establishing and maintaining Canada’s grain quality standards. Its programs result in shipments of grain that consistently meet contract specifications for quality, safety and quantity. The Canadian Grain Commission regulates the grain industry to protect producers’ rights and ensure the integrity of grain transactions.
