Communications
Our Grain Inspection Program is
moving toward a grain testing method that does not use hazardous materials. If
the pilot project using water-based testing kits shows consistent results, the
new method will have benefits for the environment and worker safety.
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| Craig Hoyt testing grain at WSDA Longview office. |
WSDA provides important services
to Washington’s grain producers and exporters. For instance, foreign buyers
require testing for mycotoxins as a contract requirement. Most of this testing
has been done with kits that include methanol.
The presence of methanol makes
the program a generator of hazardous material under state and federal
regulations for storage and disposal. Methanol is flammable and can produce
health effects in people exposed to it.
Piloting water-based testing
As the first step in
transitioning away from chemical-based testing, the southwest regional grain
office – which includes Vancouver, Longview and Kalama – is piloting
water-based kits. Manager Philip Garcia said it’s important to conduct
side-by-side comparisons for solid data showing consistent test results.
“We want to be sure our
customer’s operations are not disrupted and the testing results are accurate
and repeatable,” Garcia said.
Program managers anticipate
several advantages to the new process. Virtually eliminating handling and
disposing of a hazardous substance would be better for the environment and for
program staff by reducing exposure.
Mycotoxins are created by molds
that affect the quality of grains. Inspection services monitor for mycotoxins
to assure that contaminated grain products do not enter the food supply chain.
Protecting the food supply, maintaining
high quality customer service and being good environmental stewards are the
goals of this project.