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Whole GrainAuthor: Grain Elevator and Processing Society (GEAPS)
Hosted by Jim Lenz, GEAPS Director of Global Education and Training, The Whole Grain Podcast shares expert insights, real-world stories, and innovative ideas shaping the future of grain handling and processing. Each episode features voices from across the industry, including GEAPS members, educators and special guests. With a growing audience spanning 94 countries, the podcasts fuels growth, innovation and connection in the grain and grain processing industriesone conversation at a time.-Subscribe on your favorite podcast app or listen at www.geaps.com/wholegrain -Learn how GEAPS can help you grow your career at www.GEAPS.com -Explore exclusive GEAPS member benefits at www.geaps.com/membership-Register for our online courses at https://www.geaps.com/training-education/online-learning/full-course-catalog/-Connect with host Jim Lenz at james@geaps.com. Language: en-us Genres: Education, Life Sciences, Science, Self-Improvement Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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What Does a Test Tell You? How Sampling and Testing Protect Grain Safety and Quality
Episode 58
Sunday, 23 November, 2025
Have questions, feedback, or thoughts on the show? We want to hear from you! Click on this link to send us a text message. In this episode of the Whole Grain Podcast, host Jim Lenz, Director of Global Education and Training at GEAPS, sits down with Dr. Gretchen Mosher, Associate Professor in the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at Iowa State University. Dr. Mosher is a nationally recognized expert on grain quality, measurement systems, and safety management — and her research reveals why testing is one of the most powerful tools grain handlers have for protecting quality, reducing risk, and making informed operational decisions.Key TakeawaysTesting is about information — not punishment.Testing provides actionable data that helps grain handlers make better decisions about drying, storing, blending, and shipping products. It validates when quality is on target and identifies small issues before they become costly problems.A strong testing strategy is essential risk management.Most grain quality or safety failures start small. Routine sampling and testing catch issues early, protect millions of dollars in inventory, and support compliance with FSMA and other regulatory requirements.Both incoming and outgoing testing matter.Testing inbound grain establishes a baseline. Testing outbound grain provides documentation and leverage when customers question quality — proving the product met standards when it left the facility.Consistency is king: garbage in, garbage out.Valid sampling procedures are the foundation of trustworthy data. Inconsistent sampling or uncalibrated equipment create errors that distort results.Composite sampling and two-tiered testing improve reliability.Small samples collected over time create an accurate picture of quality. Simple rapid tests help flag samples needing deeper analysis.Testing data only has value if you use it.Data that’s collected but ignored is wasted investment. Facilities should use test results to guide blending, storage decisions, aeration, safety controls, and customer allocation.Good testing protects export markets.Documentation proves that grain marketed as non-GMO, food-grade, or identity-preserved was handled correctly.Future technologies will enhance sampling — not replace judgment.Machine vision, sensors, and automated systems are improving sampling accuracy, but the core purpose remains the same: better information for better decisions.Pull Quotes“Testing gives you information — and people make better decisions when they have better data.”“Most big problems in grain start small. Testing helps you catch them early.”“Garbage in, garbage out. Consistent sampling is the key to reliable results.”“If you collect data and don’t use it, you might as well put a pile of money on the floor and light it on fire.”“You have total control over the quality of your data.”Important Links & Related EpisodesIowa State University Department of Agricultural and Biosystems EngineeringIntroduction to Grain Quality Management (GEAPS Online Course)Grain Elevator and Processing Society champions, connects and serves the global grain industry and its members. Be sure to visit GEAPS’ website to learn how you can grow your network, support your personal professional development, and advance your career. Thank you for listening to another episode of GEAPS’ Whole Grain podcast.
