Durum Quality Took a Hit Thanks to Untimely Harvest Rains

2014 Summary

The 2014 durum crop is similar in production to 2013, but reflects more quality impact from a challenging growing and harvest season. The overall grade is a #2 Amber Durum, down from a #1 Hard Amber Durum in 2013. Sixty percent of the crop falls in the top two grades, but a larger than normal percentage of the crop falls into the lower subclass levels, as untimely harvest rains dropped the average vitreous kernel level to 74{28d451f77a4de8a52cd2586be6cc1800527fe70ea84e8b3f90098495d088e086} and distributions show a more extreme range in vitreous levels in 2014.

Average test weight is 59 lbs/bu. (76.8 kg/hl), below 2013 while protein is
higher at 13.2{28d451f77a4de8a52cd2586be6cc1800527fe70ea84e8b3f90098495d088e086}. Rain at harvest led to sharp declines in falling number values, while growing season disease pressures elevated DON levels in areas.

Milling extractions and mixing properties are similar to last year. Cooking qualities are showing similar to slightly improved values compared to 2013 with a higher color score and cooked firmness. Buyers will find wide values in the market for the 2014 Northern durum crop, and premium contract specifications will command premium prices, but good value can be obtained from large portions of the crop with diligent contract specifications, particularly for vitreousness, DON and falling numbers.

CLICK HERE for the 2014 U.S. Durum Crop Quality Report

Source:  North Dakota Wheat Commission

Posted by Jami Howell