Grain undergoes biological processes even after harvest. The winter period is considered one of the most critical stages in the raw material procurement cycle. The quality of storage organization during the cold season directly affects germination rates, sprouting energy, and, consequently, the quality of the final product.
Preserving the harvest without losses is a complex task requiring modern equipment and strict adherence to protocols.

Preparation for Winter Storage

Grain must be prepared before long-term storage. Immediately after harvest, the grain mass undergoes primary processing. The main goal is to halt active physiological processes and put the grain into a state of "dormancy."

Preparation Stages

The first stage of preparing grain for long-term storage is cleaning. The grain mass is freed from weed impurities, dust, and broken kernels. This preparation is necessary because impurities are the first to mold and accumulate moisture, becoming hotspots for self-heating.
The second and most important stage is drying. Wet grain will either freeze or begin to rot in winter. For long-term storage, moisture content must be brought down to base values (typically 13-14%). This is a critically important process that cannot be done "by eye." For this purpose, Grainrus Group uses its own grain drying complex.

Optimal Storage Conditions: Where Grain "Winters"

The choice of storage location depends on the batch volume and the intended use of the raw material. Modern agro-industry uses two main types of storage facilities:
1. Elevators (silo bins).
These are vertical containers that allow for complete automation of the process, temperature control at different levels, and active ventilation. Vertical storage is ideal for large batches of homogeneous grain. Grainrus Group uses powerful elevator complexes located in the Kursk region—two modern facilities for storing oilseeds and grain crops.

2. Floor storage warehouses.
These are large covered hangars where grain is stored in bulk. This method is often used for forming small or specific batches of raw material. Grainrus Group owns several large floor storage warehouses located in the Kursk, Rostov, Ivanovo, Yaroslavl regions, as well as in the Krasnodar Krai.

Temperature and Ventilation

The optimal temperature for storing malting barley is considered to be within the range of 0 to +10 °C in the grain bulk. Low temperatures prevent the development of pathogenic microorganisms. It is important not only to maintain the temperature regime but also to provide the grain with sufficient ventilation.
Even dry grain can begin to heat up due to temperature differences between the outside and inside of the storage facility. Active ventilation systems blow air through the grain mass, equalizing temperature and humidity. It is crucial to avoid sudden fluctuations: if warm air enters cold grain, mold formation is almost inevitable.

Pest Prevention

Storage pests (weevils, mites, rodents) pose a serious threat. Although insect activity decreases at low temperatures, they can survive in warm self-heating zones within the bulk.
Pest prevention includes:

• Fumigation (disinfection) of premises before loading;
• Cooling the grain (at temperatures below +5°C, most pests enter a state of suspended animation)
• Regular monitoring of traps.

Condition Monitoring

Simply loading grain into an elevator is not enough. Continuous monitoring must be carried out throughout the cold season. What measures are necessary?

1. Thermometry — sensors inside the silos record temperature layer by layer. A sharp temperature increase in one point signals the beginning of spoilage.
2. Sampling. Laboratory technicians regularly check the raw material for mold odor, color changes, and pest infestation.

In winter, checks are conducted regularly; their frequency depends on the moisture content of the stored grain and the technical conditions of the warehouse.

Risks and Errors in Winter Storage

The main error is the lack of control. Experts identify several risk factors:

1. Storing under-dried grain threatens the loss of the entire batch due to the risk of mold.
2. Mixing batches. Adding moist grain to dry grain can spoil the entire volume.
3. Ignoring condensation. "Dripping" from the roof or walls of a silo creates pockets of rot.

To avoid losses, it is necessary to strictly follow the technology and use reliable storage facilities with automation systems.


Winter storage is a technologically complex process that requires a professional approach and modern infrastructure. Any violation of the temperature or humidity regime can lead to a serious loss of raw material quality. Grainrus Group ensures high grain quality year-round, regardless of weather conditions.