Seed technologist Michèl Kockelkoren observed that seed quality is lost in about 10% of all seed despatches due to climatic factors, especially excess temperature and humidity during transport. When the grower obtains a low germination of seed he naturally blames the seed company. The seed company in turn knows to have despatched seed with a high guaranteed percentage germination due to carefully controlled seed production, cleaning, treatment and proof of germinability.

Until recently, insurance companies were surprised that seed companies involved in making a claim had no climate control measurements during transit. Seed despatches are small volume, very high value shipments, yet ordinary transport companies are used and historically these companies have taken little or no special interest to ensure the most rapid transit and that temperatures and humidity of seed packages were kept within ceratin levels. The effect of high temperatures on seeds is very negative and in the case of primed seeds, it is disastrous.

With this in mind Michèl Kockelkoren developed a minute tracking device (diameter 16mm and thickness 5mm) secured on a plastic card. It measures temperature and humidity every 15 minutes and records these data and the time.

Orbi Solutions www. orbi-solutions.com have developed the device called ‘Verdict’ which is placed together with the seed being despatched. On arrival the device is placed on the reader which is connected to a computer. Through internet this computer is linked to that of the seed company which sends all data to their logistics department.

During transport, if the temperature or moisture levels have exceeded a preset range the computer of the seed company is able to give a warning It knows the exact temperature and humidity levels reached during transport. If there has been a problem, action can be taken prior to the germination of the given batch of seed thus preventing loss of business to the client. Equally, the seed company can decide whether or not to take action with the transport company and has proof for the insurance company.

Monique Krinkels, “Prophyta – The Annual 2006” info@prophyta.com - www.prophyta.com