Quality of western Canadian lentils 2016

Lentil samples

Samples for the Canadian Grain Commission’s Harvest Sample Program were collected from producers across western Canada (Figure 1). The Canadian Grain Commission received a total of 713 lentil samples including 253 green and 460 red lentils for analysis. All samples were graded and tested for protein content and seed size distribution. Size distribution was determined using the image analysis technique. Composites for green lentils (No. 1 and No. 2 Canada combined) were prepared based on seed size (small, medium and large) and crop region, while composites for red lentils were prepared based on crop region and variety (No. 1 and No. 2 Canada combined). The composite samples were tested for moisture content, protein content, starch content, total dietary fiber, ash content, mineral content, 100-seed weight and water absorption. In addition, red lentils were also evaluated for their dehulling quality. It is important to note that the samples reported by grade do not necessarily represent the actual distribution of grade.

Figure 1. Map of the prairie provinces showing origin of 2016 lentil samples from the Canadian Grain Commission's Harvest Sample Program