Seeds

Usually shipped in bags, occasionally in bulk. The main causes of damage to seeds are contact with water, heating, fermentation and sprouting, spontaneous heating, and infestation. Seeds are liable to absorb moisture from the atmosphere and in consequence develop mould. Seeds which have become damp, wet or heated should be immediately dried. Exposure to the sun may kill the life of some seeds. The sound seeds should be separated from the damaged if this is an economic propostion. Damaged seeds should be disposed of as soon as is possible. Seeds are liable to heat and deteriorate if not properly dried before shipment. Deterioration may also set in if seeds are kept for any length of time in conditions of excessive heat.
Loss in weight may be due to loss of moisture content, heating, infestation or seepage. Seeds from some countries may contain a percentage of fine dust or sand which can be partly lost in transit.
Infestation may be caused by insects inherent in the seeds before shipment. See also individual commodity headings and Oilseeds.