Grain size is an important indicator of the quality of grain. In general, the smaller and finer the grain, the better the quality of the grain. In the agricultural industry, grain size has a significant impact on farmers’ yield, nutritional content, and ease of milling.
Small grain size is preferred over larger grain size as it typically carries higher yields, contains higher amounts of key nutrients and vitamins, resists damage, and is easier to mill. With small grain size, the more contact area a seed has to the soil, allowing for more beneficial fungi and bacteria to colonize and increase nutrient uptake. Smaller grains also provide better control over post-harvest losses due to increased resistance to shattering and wind damage.
Nutrition is also impacted by grain size. In general, smaller grain size is more associated with higher levels of essential vitamins and minerals, as well as higher protein content. This can be partially attributed to the fact that smaller grain size increases the nutrient absorption surface area, allowing for increased nutrient uptake from the soil. Additionally, studies have found that smaller grain size increases the content of key proteins and other nutrients, while decreasing antinutritional components, such as phytate.
The milling process is also affected by grain size. Smaller grain size is preferred for milling as it increases the efficiency and speed of the process. Smaller grain size allows for faster grinding and improved separation of the bran, germ, and endosperm. Therefore, finer grinds of grains like wheat and rice are preferred over coarser grinds as they are easier to process and produce a higher quality flour.
Overall, grain size has a significant impact on the yield, nutrition, and milling process of grains. Therefore, careful consideration should be given to grain size when considering a crop to farm. Generally, smaller grain size is associated with higher yields, higher nutrient content, better resistance to damage and quicker milling time. Therefore, small grain size is highly preferred in the agricultural industry.