Food grain protection is an important issue in food production. Insects and weeds that thrive in stored grain can lead to significant losses and contamination. Added to that, they can also pose significant health risks. Traditional pest control techniques include sanitizing storage bins, fumigation with approved pesticides, and maintaining the storage bin's moisture level at a low level. Alternative methods include using natural remedies such as clove oil and cinnamon oil, which are recognized as safe alternatives to pesticides.

The first step in protecting stored grain protection is to ensure their protection from pests. Pests feed on moisture and heat. Proper protection is essential, and it starts with proper ventilation. Sound ventilation methods remove heat from the grain while preserving moisture at a steady level. This prevents the growth of microbes and insects that thrive in warm temperatures. A good ventilation system should also consider the conditions outside the silo. These measures are designed to ensure that the grain does not develop mould and microbes.

Moreover, proper storage temperatures are important in ensuring the safety of stored grains. High temperatures promote growth of biotic components that degrade the quality of food grains. This is why regular inspection is essential. A variety of electronic measuring devices, including moisture meters, can monitor grain moisture. These devices are inexpensive, environmentally friendly, and capable of accommodating large amounts of food grain.

Proper sanitation and aeration are also critical for food grain protection. A thorough cleaning of godowns is vital to minimize contamination and damage to harvested produce. In addition to being clean, grains must be dried thoroughly to prevent insects and pests from growing. Chemical fumigation is another method to eliminate microbes and protect grain. There are several different chemicals available for this purpose.

A good storage facility is designed to minimize damage and minimize chemical inputs. It also ensures the integrity of the grain storage system, and minimizes losses due to infestation. The personnel responsible for grain storage must be aware of their role in food grain protection, and should be trained in safe handling of chemicals. If this is not the case, proper sanitation is not enough to protect crops.

Traditional agricultural practices are also an important alternative for food grain protection. For example, farmers in Africa and Asia are using natural products to store grain for up to a year. These methods protect stored grains without damaging the environment or human health. Traditional methods are more eco-friendly and effective. However, they have a few drawbacks.

Postharvest losses of grain are a major concern around the world. In developed nations, postharvest losses range from one to two percent, while losses in developing countries can reach as high as fifty percent. In addition to increasing the quality and quantity of crops, grain protectionism can also reduce the need for imported grains, saving valuable foreign currency. Additionally, reducing the postharvest losses for grain-exporting countries can increase the country's income, and help citizens enjoy a higher standard of living.