Quality parameters
Specify the method and basis for each parameter so offers can be compared.
- Protein content (dry basis), a key driver of pasta quality.
- Vitreousness (vitreous kernels), linked to semolina yield.
- Test weight (specific weight) and moisture.
- Falling number, foreign matter, broken and shrivelled kernels.
Food safety
Mycotoxins such as deoxynivalenol (DON) are regulated in the EU under Regulation (EU) 2023/915. Pesticide residue limits also apply. Ask for analysis of the lot and agree on an independent sample at loading for larger purchases.
Packaging and shipping
Grain is usually traded EXW, FCA, FOB or CFR/CIF. Agree the loading port, shipment period and tolerances on quantity.
- Bulk in containers or vessels for large volumes.
- Big bags or bags for smaller lots.
Documents
- Phytosanitary certificate and certificate of origin.
- Certificate of analysis or inspection certificate.
- Fumigation certificate where the destination requires it.
Durum versus common wheat
Durum wheat (Triticum durum) is a different species from the common or bread wheat used for most flour. Its hard, amber kernels mill into semolina, which gives pasta its firmness. In many markets, dry pasta is traditionally made from durum wheat semolina, so mills buy durum specifically and do not swap it for common wheat.
How quality varies by crop
Weather during growing and harvest affects protein, vitreousness and falling number, so quality can change from year to year and region to region. Rain at harvest, for example, can lower the falling number and increase discoloured kernels. Ask for the analysis of the actual lot rather than averages for the region.
Storage
Grain must be kept dry and cool to avoid mould and insect damage. Agree the moisture limit at loading, check it on arrival, and store the wheat in clean, ventilated facilities.
Contract terms worth agreeing
Grain contracts are often based on standard trade forms; whatever form is used, these points should be clear before shipment.
- Quality parameters with tolerances, and what happens if a lot falls outside them.
- Quantity with a tolerance (for example plus or minus a stated percentage).
- Shipment period and loading port.
- Who appoints the inspection company and whose results are final.
Organic durum wheat
Organic durum wheat must come from certified producers, with certificates covering the operator and the product. For EU imports, the organic import documents required by the EU rules must accompany the shipment.
Comparing offers
Durum offers should be compared on the same quality parameters, quantity, shipment period and Incoterm. A lower price for lower protein or a later shipment period is a different product, not a discount.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Buying on protein alone without vitreousness or falling number.
- Not stating the basis and method for each parameter.
- Ignoring mycotoxin testing for the lot.
- Leaving shipment period and quantity tolerance undefined.
Checklist before you order
- Protein, vitreousness, test weight, moisture and falling number specified.
- Mycotoxin and pesticide analysis for the lot.
- Packaging, loading port and shipment period agreed.
- Phytosanitary and origin documents planned.
- Incoterm, payment terms and inspection option in writing.
How Kestrade helps
We look for producers and traders able to meet your parameters and volume, check their documents and capacity, and present one offer with Incoterm, shipment period and payment terms.