Brazil - Loading and Carriage of Soya Beans

It has been reported that this year’s soya bean crop in some parts of Brazil has been adversely affected by heavy rains, increasing the moisture content and reducing the quality of the harvest. Soya beans containing high moisture content are normally dried. However, the drying process itself may reduce the quality of the beans still further. Although it is not uncommon for producers to blend poor quality beans with good quality beans, this year there appears to be a shortage of good quality beans for blending.  

Vessels that are due to load soya beans in South America are advised to inspect the cargo presented for shipment for signs of germination, mould, shrivelling, abnormal odour or any other indication that the cargo may not be sound. In the event of any concerns, the Club should be contacted immediately as it may be necessary to obtain expert advice.  

As with any agricultural food product, customary ventilation precautions to minimise the formation of ship and cargo sweat should be taken throughout the voyage, subject to any fumigation that may be required. Detailed records of hold, air and sea temperatures as well as the times of commencing and ceasing ventilation should also be maintained. If the cargo deteriorates due to inherent vice, such records may prove to be vital in contesting claims that the vessel failed to ventilate correctly on passage.  

Members requiring further guidance should contact the Loss Prevention department.