As the 2020/21 harvest approaches, growers are reminded of the critical role they play in maintaining the reputation of South Australia’s grain, maintaining market access in multiple domestic and international markets and meeting end use customer requirements.
Maintaining vehicle hygiene and cleaning grain handling equipment is an essential component of this as Viterra sites can only receive grain free of contaminants based on industry standards.
On farm equipment such as augers, bins and headers could contain traces of old or pickled grain, fertiliser or bait for pests, particularly if they haven’t been used in a while.
Growers are encouraged to check all vehicles that cart grain and prior loads to ensure vehicles meet the required standards for food safety and vehicle cleanliness, and correct procedures have been followed as growers are responsible for deliveries made on their behalf. Growers are also required to declare the last load when making a delivery. The Prior Load Matrix available on the Viterra website outlines correct procedures to follow.
Viterra also plays a key role in maintaining market access or South Australian grain and takes its responsibility of managing food safety and quality management very seriously.
Viterra tests samples of grain from multiple points along the supply chain to ensure it meets end use market and customer requirements at the point of outturn.
Viterra holds ISO 22000 certification which meets the highest international standards in food safety and quality management. The certification is the highest of any grain supply chain in Australia which Viterra has maintained for more than 20 years demonstrating the business’ continued focus in this area.
Since opening its purpose built laboratory, Viterra has continued to invest into the facility which includes new testing equipment to ensure testing is carried out efficiently and to the highest standard.