HACCP and VSM models of French and U.S. Wheat production processes

Abstract

This chapter compares two wheat production processes that can influence protein quality characteristics. The processes selected come from two different production activities: Seed selection (Fig. 5.27) and the Growing phase (Fig. 5.29). “Choose wheat seed” is modelled using the HACCP decision model (Fig. 2.6). This model not only compares the French and U.S. approaches to seed selection, but it illustrates that GMPs/GAPs/GHPs can be tested—and improved—using the HACCP decision model. There are too many processes in the Growing phase that influence protein quality characteristics to consider the impacts of each one. Therefore, a decision was made with the assistance of Stan Cauvain to look more closely at nitrogen fertilizer topdressing because it is significantly connected to protein in wheat. A variety of nitrogen fertilizer applications were compared using VSM models. Also with assistance from Stan Cauvain, the decision was made to utilize Australian wheat growers’ system of measurements and benchmarks developed by Maarten Stapper as an example of successful and measurable processes. VSM models depicted wheat plant growth and the system of benchmarks applied to the tillering stage.