Grain lab joins the combine

Feb 28, 2023

In response, commodity buyers and food processors often offer price premiums for specified characteristics.

To make the most of those price premiums, producers need to measure and document the characteristics of grain going through their combines. Price premiums might be offered for factors such as oil content, protein, starch, falling numbers and seed size.

Differentiation and identity preservation (IP) become critical factors at harvest. Noticing and segregating higher value crop as it runs through the combine allows the producer to bin it separately.

For example, if there’s a price premium on high protein grain, a grower might decide to harvest the knolls first and haul that grain to designated bins. Knowing the protein of grain going through the combine allows him to combine the tops of the knoll and down the slope until protein begins to drop off.

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Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.