U.S. soybean farmers can now breathe a sigh of relief as the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) published a final rule removing soybeans of other colors (SBOC) as an official grade-determining factor. From now on, the Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) will only consider damaged kernels, foreign material, and splits when assigning grades to yellow soybeans.
The change, which will take effect on September 1, is a response to the increase in soybeans that failed to meet the No. 1 grade due to SBOC of 1% or more. Historically, SBOC levels were low and rarely affected soybean grading, but with the rise in Enlist E3 soybeans, the situation changed. These beans have become popular for combating herbicide-resistant weeds, resulting in more soybeans with off-colors.
The removal of SBOC as a grade-determining factor is a win for the U.S. soybean industry, promoting fairness and ensuring U.S. soybeans remain competitive in the global market. The USDA recognizes the significance of consistent grade standards and aims to protect the marketability of agricultural products. While ASA supports this change for Enlist beans, the U.S. Standards for Soybeans is flexible and can be amended to meet industry needs in the future.
This rule revision is a positive step for soybean farmers, streamlining the grading process and benefiting the soybean industry as a whole.
Photo Credit: istock-sandramatic
Categories: Ohio, Crops, Soybeans