ABSTRACT
The postharvest processes and subsequent manufacture of cereal-based products are subjected to many quality control measurements in the sequential stages of production. There are tests for whole grains, other nongrain and functional additives or raw materials, intermediate processed products (i.e., flours, semolina, grits, starches, etc.), and finished food products. There are numerous quality tests commonly used by the various industrial segments, varying from the simple to the sophisticated. The tests used by grain elevators and plant breeders are generally simple, straightforward, and discriminatory with the aim of screening the quality of a large number of samples. The accurate determination of grain properties and characteristics plays a key role in the selection of new varieties and hybrids by plant breeders. The quality control of the milling industries is of utmost importance because it determines yields and the quality of end products. In addition, tests can predict important processing parameters and adjustments in formulations. Generally, these industries require more sophisticated and specialized equipment. These tests are interrelated and in most instances complement one another.
