Barley inspection
Barley inspection is a crucial quality control process that occurs at various stages of the logistics chain. This process minimizes significant trade risks related to the possibility of cargo being delivered or received that does not conform to the agreed specifications, is not supplied in the correct quantity, or lacks the necessary accompanying documents for barley export/import operations.
CISS GROUP offers comprehensive barley inspection services to large agribusinesses and international trading companies in intermediate storage warehouses, elevators, factories, and ports worldwide.
The distinctiveness of barley inspection stems from its various purposes. Different requirements are imposed based on one of four standards: food and feed barley, brewing barley, cereal barley, and barley for processing into malt in alcohol production. The classification of barley types within these standards is not always clearly defined. For food and fodder barley, specific basic and restrictive conditions have been established regarding moisture levels, as well as weed and grain impurities.
Grain impurities may include underdeveloped barley grains, moldy, broken, corroded grains, as well as those affected by smut and ergot. All barley standards also classify other grains—such as wheat, rye, oats, and sunflower—as impurities, along with non-organic contaminants like small stones, ore particles, and pebbles.
GAFTA-accredited inspectors and laboratory technicians from CISS GROUP conduct barley inspections at any point along the supply chain.
Key Stages of Barley Inspection:
Incoming/Outgoing Barley Inspection
This inspection is performed during the delivery of barley to silos or ports, and when releasing it from factory or silo warehouses. CISS GROUP inspectors visually assess the premises for suitability for cargo storage and inspect the barley to ensure it is dry, not mixed with other cargo, and free from pests, foreign matter, weeds, mold, or foreign odors. For bagged barley, inspectors examine the bags for signs of soaking and may open selected bags for sampling and further quality checks.
Cleanliness Acceptance of Containers/Holds Before Loading Barley
Inspectors perform a visual assessment of containers and empty holds to verify cleanliness and suitability for barley transportation. They meticulously examine internal surfaces and assess the integrity and condition of locks, hinges, and fasteners on container doors, as well as rubber seals.
Visual Control of the Loading Process and Barley Sampling
During the loading process, inspectors monitor the loading of barley, confirm gross and net weight through re-weighing, and conduct initial, intermediate, and final weight checks using the draft survey method. They oversee the fumigation process, conduct visual assessments of cargo quality, and take samples according to GAFTA sampling rules, forming composite samples. At the end of the loading, inspectors seal the containers or holds and enter all data into reports accessible to clients. CISS GROUP provides loading inspection and sampling services 24/7.
Laboratory Analysis of Barley Quality
The quality of barley is evaluated exclusively in GAFTA-accredited laboratories, adhering to the local or international standards agreed upon in the contract. Standard parameters for assessing barley quality include grain condition, color, odor, temperature, moisture content, germination ability, size, and the presence of small grains and impurities. Technological quality indicators include full-scale grain weight, 1000 grain weight, germination ability, water sensitivity, mealy texture, extract yield, protein content, and hulliness.
In addition to basic analyses, laboratory tests are conducted for the presence of pesticides, mycotoxins, GMOs, dioxins, heavy metals, and radioactive elements in barley. Upon request, express analyses can also be performed for each predetermined lot during the loading process.
Photo and Video Reporting
Inspectors document each stage of the inspection with photos and videos, including timestamps for all recorded events. At the conclusion of the barley inspection, CISS GROUP provides a comprehensive photo report detailing all inspection stages.
Certificates
Following the barley inspection, final certificates or reports are issued. Clients can verify the authenticity of these documents using a unique QR code that links to the CISS GROUP website, where PDF versions of the certificates are stored. Our certificates are secured with a digital cryptographic signature, ensuring their reliability and security.
Digitally signed certificates are often required by banks to validate the integrity of trade processes when financing operations through letters of credit.
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