Overview
ISO 6322-2:2000 - "Storage of cereals and pulses - Part 2: Practical recommendations" provides practical guidance for choosing and operating storage methods for cereals and pulses. It complements ISO 6322-1 (general recommendations) and ISO 6322-3 (pest control) and focuses on actionable measures to limit deterioration from moisture, temperature, pests and handling. The standard addresses open storage, covered temporary storage, specially constructed buildings (flat stores), silo storage, special systems (airtight and cool storage) and storage during transport.
Key Topics and Requirements
- Initial grain condition: Emphasizes the importance of initial grain temperature and moisture content as primary factors affecting storage life.
- Handling: Select handling and transport methods that minimize mechanical damage and dust emissions.
- Open and covered storage:
- Open storage is cheapest but highest risk; recommended for short-term use in dry, cool locations.
- Uncovered heaps may be affected to a depth of up to 5 cm by rain; raised storage is encouraged (preferably 0.5 m above ground) with a hard standing.
- Temporary covers (tarpaulins, corrugated roofs) should allow ventilation - fold coverings back on dry days to evaporate condensation and secure overlaps of at least 50 cm.
- Flat stores (specially constructed buildings):
- Site orientation and construction should minimize heat gain and exclude pests.
- Floors should be smooth, hard and waterproof (concrete preferred over tamped earth or untreated timber).
- Walls and roofs should be smooth, well-sealed, light-coloured where permissible, and avoid dead spaces that harbor pests.
- Ventilation must be controllable; permanent uncontrolled ventilation is discouraged.
- Vent openings should be meshed (anti-bird and fine internal mesh) and roof-to-wall seals must prevent pest ingress.
- Silos and special systems: Includes guidance for vertical storage and controlled systems such as airtight and cool storage (practical recommendations for use and monitoring).
- Transport storage: Differentiates short- and long-term transport needs and highlights special concerns for shipping.
Practical Applications
ISO 6322-2 is intended for:
- Grain producers and cooperatives planning on-farm or commercial storage
- Warehouse and silo designers, engineers and contractors
- Logistics and transport operators handling cereals and pulses
- Grain storage managers, quality and post-harvest specialists
- Agricultural extension services and food safety regulators
Use this standard to design stores, select appropriate storage methods (bulk vs. bagged), reduce spoilage from moulds and pests, and improve handling and ventilation practices.
Related Standards
- ISO 6322-1: Storage of cereals and pulses - Part 1: General recommendations for the keeping of cereals
- ISO 6322-3: Storage of cereals and pulses - Part 3: Control of attack by pests
Keywords: ISO 6322-2:2000, storage of cereals and pulses, grain storage, bulk storage, flat stores, silos, ventilation, moisture control, pest proofing.
