New Standards for Hard White Wheat Begin in May

Beginning on May 1, 2006, the Grain Inspection Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) will begin implementing new policies for classification of Hard White wheat. 

The changes are the result of a February 18, 2005, Federal Register notice announcing that Hard White wheat would no longer be considered as a contrasting class in the Hard Red Winter and Hard Red Spring wheat.  According to the final rule, Hard White wheat will be considered a “wheat of other classes.” 

Beginning on May 1:

• All Hard White wheat varieties will be considered Hard White wheat regardless of color and regardless of whether they are in a predominately Hard White wheat sample or a predominately Hard Red wheat sample.
• All Hard White wheat kernels will be counted as wheat of other classes in Hard Red Winter wheat and Hard Red Spring wheat.
• Hard White wheat kernels will not be considered contrasting classes in Hard Red Winter wheat and Hard Red Spring wheat.

According to a GIPSA program notice, “GIPSA recognizes that some individuals or companies may need to alter their business practices, but also recognizes that this policy will encourage the grain industry to keep the classes separate, within an acceptable tolerance, as they were intended.” 

Kernel identification will be determined by visual assessment and would include dark colored amber white wheat kernels.  In cases where the samples change “normal visual inspection,” GIPSA stated that alkali tests will be utilized.

Grade limits for wheat of other classes are not affected by this rule, and Hard Red Winter and Hard Red Spring wheat will continue to be counted as contrasting classes in Hard White wheat.