What is Identity Preserved?
Identity preserved (IP) is a process that ensures the purity or identity of soybeans with unique attributes. This process ensures quality measures are documented from seed through to export. IP soybeans can be segregated by variety, quality, or specialty trait such as high protein, high sugar or isoflavone content.
In Canada, the Canadian Identity Preserved Recognition System (CIPRS) provides assurance to domestic and international buyers regarding quality attributes. Operated by the Canadian Grain Commission (CGC), CIPRS is a comprehensive system covering all aspects of soybean production and processing from purchasing seed through to export. In addition, the CGC accredits third party audit firms to evaluate company IP systems. CIPRS gives buyers a paper trail providing full traceability back to the producer and the seed used.
For further information, visit the CIPRS website.
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Canada’s IP soybean grower
Canadian soybean growers are progressive and can adapt to meet the ever-changing needs of the market. Canadian family farms treat their soybeans as a food crop that will make its way into the kitchens of international homes. Our skilled soybean growers are the first step in the IP process. Canadian soybean growers have grown IP soybeans for specialty markets for over three decades. Producers usually grow food grade soybeans under contact from their local elevator. The IP contract signed by the grower outlines production standards and quality requirements, which will meet the needs of our international customers. |
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Growing IP soybeans
Typically, soybeans are planted in Canada from mid-May to early June, depending on the weather and the growing region. IP soybeans are grown from certified seed, which ensures the purity of the variety. IP soybean growers also thoroughly clean out all planting equipment to ensure that no contamination occurs between varieties and other crops. In addition, growers keep meticulous records of all operations in each IP soybean field. These fields are thoroughly examined by experts a number of times throughout the growing season to inspect for insects and weeds. The grower will receive a written report after each inspection, which will help in the management of their land and their ability to attain the best quality product possible. |
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Harvesting IP soybeans
The soybean harvest usually occurs between mid-September to mid-October, depending on the weather and the growing region. Ideally soybeans are harvested at 14 percent moisture. Harvest cannot begin until soybean stems and weeds have dried down completely to avoid staining of the soybean seed. For identity preserved soybeans, Canadian soybean growers must ensure that seed quality is maintained during harvest. Prior to harvest, combines, trucks, wagons and storage bins are thoroughly cleaned to prevent contamination. IP soybeans are stored in separate bins based on variety or specialty trait and segregated from other grains and oilseeds. |
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