Grain grading changes for soybeans and barley

Summary#

The final Regulations Amending the Canada Grain Regulations (SOR/2024-160) change grading rules for soybeans and add a way to identify barley varieties meant for food. The amendments were made by the Canadian Grain Commission and come into force on August 1, 2024 (or on the day of registration if that happens later).

What it does#

• For soybeans (changes to Table 23):
  • Replaces the phrase “may be badly stained” with “may be stained” for the No. 4 and No. 5 Canada grades.
  • Treats bicoloured seed coats the same as other seed-coat discolouration by removing the separate “bicoloured” wording and using “Other Colours.”
  • As a result, any soybean staining worse than the current No. 2 Canada standard print will be assessed as No. 3 Canada for “stained,” which standardizes how graders classify stained soybeans.
• For barley (changes to Table 10 and Table 48):
  • Adds a new “Variety” column that lets the Commission list specific barley varieties designated for food use (similar to existing lists for malting barley).
  • This supports creating and maintaining formal designation lists that identify barley varieties suitable specifically for food.
• Timing:
  • These changes are in force on August 1, 2024, unless the regulations are registered after that date, in which case they take effect upon registration.

Who's affected#

• Farmers who grow soybeans and barley, especially those developing or selling varieties aimed at food markets.
• Grain graders and inspection staff who apply the Canada grading standards.
• Grain buyers, processors, millers, food manufacturers, and exporters who rely on consistent grade descriptions.
• Seed registrants and anyone who registers new barley varieties for sale or import under the Seeds Act (designation is needed for eligibility for certain grades).
• The Canadian Grain Commission, which maintains the grading tables and variety designation lists.

If any group is affected differently in specific regions or supply chains, the notice does not spell out those local details.

Why it matters#

• Soybean sellers and buyers should see more consistent and predictable grading when seed-coat discolouration or staining is present. That may reduce unnecessary downgrades and related disputes or financial losses.
• Adding a formal way to designate barley varieties for food use helps producers, processors and buyers identify and trade barley intended for food rather than malting. That clarity can improve market access and value for food-grade barley varieties.
• The changes are technical updates to grading rules rather than new fees or reporting requirements; the government’s analysis found no added cost to small businesses.