New grading standards for durum wheat, wheat and red lentils aim to better reflect end-use quality, reduce unnecessary downgrading and strengthen Canada's grain export reputation.
The Canadian Grain Commission (CGC) is introducing several important changes to grain grading procedures for the 2026-27 crop year, including updates affecting Canada Western Amber Durum, wheat and red lentils. The revisions, which take effect August 1, were developed following consultations with grain producers, grain handlers and industry standards committees.
According to the Commission, the changes are intended to ensure Canada's grain quality assurance system continues to meet the needs of domestic and international customers while accurately reflecting grain quality and performance.
Updates Target Durum and Wheat Quality Assessment
One of the most significant changes involves grading factors used in Canada Western Amber Durum (CWAD) and other wheat classes.
The wheat chapter of the Official Grain Grading Guide will be updated with revised procedures, definitions and photographic reference materials covering:
- Darkened and severely darkened kernels for Canada Western Amber Durum
- Severe midge damage and penetrated smudge in Canada Western Amber Durum
- Smudge and penetrated smudge for all wheat classes
These revisions build upon grading changes first introduced in November 2025 after CGC research found that darkened kernels have a much smaller impact on durum semolina quality than kernels affected by severe midge damage. The updated standards are intended to more accurately reflect true end-use performance rather than relying on grading factors that may not significantly affect processing quality.
For producers, the changes may help reduce unnecessary grade discounts at delivery while maintaining the quality assurances buyers expect from Canadian grain shipments. The Commission said exporters have already benefited from the revised approach by being able to better match customer quality requirements.
Industry Feedback Helped Shape Changes
The adjustments were developed through consultations with stakeholders across the grain value chain, including input from the Western Standards Committee and Eastern Standards Committee. The CGC says the updates reflect recommendations from both farmers and grain handlers who wanted grading standards that more closely align with real-world quality outcomes.
"The Canadian Grain Commission is implementing these changes based on feedback and recommendations from farmers and grain handlers," said David Hunt, Chief Commissioner of the Canadian Grain Commission.
"We will continue to meet the changing needs of the grain sector while maintaining a science-based system that ensures reliable exports to Canadian customers."
Red Lentil Grading Changes Address New Varieties
The Commission is also updating grading procedures for red lentils.
Beginning August 1, the "contrasting classes" grading factor will be removed from red lentil grading standards. At the same time, the definition of "contrasting colours" will be revised to accommodate new lentil varieties entering the marketplace.
The update responds to recently recommended red lentil varieties that feature seed coat colours different from traditional red lentils. Under the new approach, these varieties will be assessed through the contrasting colours grading factor when their seed coat colour differs from conventional red lentils.
The Commission said the change will help prevent the mixing of lentils with different cotyledon colours or significantly different seed coat colours, an issue that can affect market preferences and buyer specifications. By modernizing grading definitions, the agency aims to support innovation in lentil breeding while preserving consistency for domestic and international customers.
Why the Changes Matter
Canada's grain grading system plays a critical role in maintaining confidence in Canadian grain exports. Under the Canada Grain Act, the Canadian Grain Commission is responsible for establishing and maintaining grading standards that provide consistency and transparency throughout the grain handling system.
As new crop varieties are developed and buyer expectations evolve, grading standards must adapt to ensure they continue to accurately measure quality. The latest revisions represent an effort to align grading factors more closely with actual processing and end-use characteristics while supporting Canada's competitiveness in global grain markets.
For wheat, durum and lentil producers, the changes may help improve grading accuracy and reduce situations where grain is downgraded despite maintaining strong end-use performance.
For buyers, the updates are intended to preserve the reliability and consistency that have helped make Canadian grain a preferred choice in markets around the world.
Photo Credit: Pexels - Louise Cornelissen