Milling Journal

Manhattan, KS—Understanding the wheat milling process was the focus for eight Nigerians and one South African who attended the Advanced Flour Milling course sponsored by the U.S. Wheat Associates and hosted by the International Grains Program, Aug. 17-26.

"Through this course the participants have a better understanding of how to objectively evaluate mill performance, and appreciate the quality and consistency of U.S. Hard Red winter wheat," says Mark Fowler, course coordinator and associate director for the International Grains Program, housed on the Kansas State University campus.

In addition to classroom lectures, participants gained hands-on training in the K-State milling laboratories, including the Hal Ross Mill.

Students focused on applying the principles of wheat milling, wheat and flour quality evaluation and plant operations.

In speaking about the course, Dapo Arowona, manager of baking support for Honeywell Flour Mills, PLC in Ogun State, Nigeria, says, "I have a better understanding of the challenges millers face."

He explains, "I have a better perspective on wheat and how it is blended not only from different farms, but different states."

Arowana believes the knowledge and skill learned in this class will help him be a more effective manager for his company.

Arowanás sentiments are echoed by Domenique De Oliveira, program coordinator for U.S. Wheat Associates.

De Oliveira is based in Cape Town, South Africa, and serves to build trade for American wheat in Africa.

"If I get queries, I will be more knowledgeable in answering them because I have a better understanding of how milling works," says De Oliveira.

She adds, "I learned there is a science to milling and an art form to working wheat."

This education is an important component to marketing U.S. Hard Red winter wheat in Nigeria, says Fowler.

"Nigeria is the largest importer of U.S. Hard Red winter wheat.

"This market accounts for more than 3.5 million metric tons of wheat per year and is growing," Fowler says.

This class is just one example of the many short courses offered through IGP.

In addition to milling, grain science specialists lead classes in grain purchasing, feed manufacturing, grain elevator management and risk management.

For more information, go to the IGP website at: www.grains.k-state.edu/igp, or call 785-532-5932.

See Related Websites/Articles:

• International Grains Program
• U.S. Wheat Associates

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