The Spotlite Grain Sampling Program establishes a spec baseline & valuable data set for prospective buyers.

Representative samples are grain samples that accurately represent a specific quantity of grain, such as the contents of an entire grain bin. Representative samples are made by combining many smaller individual grain scoop samples into one larger composite sample. By methodically taking individual scoop samples from throughout the grain bulk to build the composite sample, you can ensure the composite sample accurately represents the entire lot of grain. The composite sample can then be used for grading before you make marketing decisions or deliver your grain. The quality of grain harvested from different areas of the same field can vary. This means the grade, dockage and protein can vary from truckload to truckload during harvest. As a result, grain quality can vary both within a bin, and from bin to bin. Building composite samples that are representative will help you get accurate information about the quality of your crop.

To make a representative sample, Spotlite provides: - four identical pails that hold at least 5 Gallons, with two labelled A and two labelled B - a grain scoop - sealable containers for the final samples - pre-paid shipping labels

The best time to make a representative sample of a grain bin is while the bin is being filled. Before you start filling the grain bin, decide how often you’ll take individual scoop samples. Scoop samples must be taken directly from the grain stream using a grain scoop. The intervals between individual scoop samples must be the same to ensure the samples are representative of the entire lot of grain. The length of interval should take into account: the amount of grain being sampled the size of grain scoop you are using how much sample you’ll need when marketing your grain The larger the auger being used or the smaller the load of grain, the shorter the interval should be. Using short, consistent intervals and taking many individual scoop samples will make the final composite sample more accurate. When taking scoop samples: use the same grain scoop to take every sample take the same number of samples from each truck, if multiple trucks of roughly the same size are filling the same bin make sure you take enough samples to fill one 5 gallon buckets to at least 3/4 full