Grain Storage

The safety of stored grain is governed mainly by moisture and temperature, because these control the biological activity of the grain itself and of the moulds and insects it carries. Dry, cool grain is biologically quiet; moist, warm grain is active and deteriorates. Keeping the bulk uniformly dry and cool, and preventing localised moisture build-up, is the core of good storage.

Even correctly dried grain can spoil if moisture migrates within the bulk. Temperature differences between the grain and the outside air drive slow air currents inside a silo that can carry moisture to the cool surface and cause condensation and crusting there. Aeration — moving cool ambient air through the grain — is used to keep the bulk at an even, low temperature and limit this migration.

Aerated silos and bins

Grain is held in metal or concrete structures with fans that push cool air through the bulk to control temperature and moisture.

Hermetic storage

Grain is sealed in airtight bags, cocoons, or silos; respiration lowers oxygen and raises carbon dioxide, suppressing insects without chemicals.

Controlled atmosphere / fumigation

Modified gas atmospheres or approved fumigants are used to control insects in sealed stores, under strict safety and residue rules.

Whatever the structure, protecting grain also means starting clean: storing only well-dried grain, cleaning stores between seasons to remove residual insects, and keeping rodents and birds out. Regular monitoring of temperature and pests allows problems to be caught before they spread through the bulk.

• Store only grain that has been dried to a safe, uniform moisture content.
• Clean and, where appropriate, treat empty stores before filling to remove carry-over insects.
• Aerate to keep the bulk cool and even in temperature, limiting moisture migration.
• Monitor grain temperature, moisture, and insects regularly, and act early on hot spots.
• Keep rodents, birds, and water out of the store.