The Tambov region’s wheat harvest for 2024 has shown remarkable improvements in quality compared to the previous year. As of September 16, the Tambov branch of the FSBI “Center for Grain Quality Assessment” has analyzed approximately 1.9 million tons of hard and soft wheat—87% of the total yield of 2.1 million tons harvested in the region. A total of 2,600 wheat samples have undergone over 50,000 laboratory tests.
Key Quality Improvements
The tests have revealed that 81% of the analyzed wheat meets food-grade standards, with 25% classified as Class 3 and 56% as Class 4. This marks a significant improvement in quality from 2023, where only 12% of the wheat was rated as Class 3. In 2024, this figure has more than doubled to 27%. Furthermore, the proportion of non-food-grade Class 5 wheat has dropped from 39% in 2023 to just 19% this year, indicating a dramatic decline in lower-quality grain.
One of the most important findings is the increase in protein and gluten content in Class 3 wheat. The average protein content is now 15%, and the gluten content has risen to 25%, both crucial factors for high-quality baking wheat. Additionally, the falling number (which measures enzymatic activity and baking quality) averages 318, indicating excellent bread-making potential.
Superior Physical Characteristics
This year’s wheat also boasts excellent physical characteristics. The average test weight, a measure of grain density, stands at 776 grams per liter. This higher density is achieved due to reduced levels of weed impurities and optimal moisture content, which, together with proper grain maturation, contribute to the overall high quality of the wheat.
Implications for Milling and Baking
The improved characteristics of Tambov’s 2024 wheat harvest suggest superior flour production, which will yield higher-quality bread. With higher protein content and better gluten strength, this year’s crop will likely be in high demand for both domestic and export markets, making it a significant contributor to Russia’s grain quality standards.
The 2024 wheat harvest in Tambov has exceeded expectations, particularly in terms of quality, marking a significant improvement over last year. Higher protein and gluten content, coupled with superior physical grain properties, make this year’s crop an ideal candidate for bread production and other food applications. The sharp decrease in non-food-grade wheat further underlines the region’s successful agricultural practices, setting a positive trend for future harvests.
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