Fact sheet: Native grain species
Trees, shrubs, grasses and even small herbs produce seed. Seeds are designed to have carbohydrate, protein and enzymes for young plants and are excellent food...
Modernising Indigenous Native Grains Processing: Economic Analysis of Technologies and Processes
32 pages
Published: 5 Feb 2025
Author(s): Angela Pattison, Rebecca Thistlethwaite, Kerrie Saunders, Nicola Onus, Dianne Hall, Hannah Binge
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This Native Grains Economic Analysis is a significant contribution to the revitalisation of native grain processing in Australia. Indigenous people have been processing grains from grasslands into flour for thousands of years, using tools and techniques developed specifically for the unique characteristics of these grains. Today, there is a growing interest in restoring these ancient practices, not only for their cultural and environmental benefits but also for their potential economic viability.
This report addresses the critical challenge of processing native grains to food-grade quality, a step that is both labour-intensive and costly due to the small and tough nature of the seeds. By combining ancient Indigenous knowledge with modern technologies, the project aims to develop efficient and economically viable methods for processing these grains. The economic analysis presented in this report evaluates various processing techniques and technologies, providing valuable insights into their costs and efficiencies.
Key findings from this report highlight the importance of species-specific threshing mechanisms, as the anatomy of seeds varies considerably between species. The report also emphasises the need for collaboration between engineers and Indigenous communities to develop new equipment that can optimise the processing of native grains. This approach not only respects the traditional knowledge but also ensures the sustainability and economic viability of native grain enterprises.
The findings and recommendations in this report aims to guide producers and industry stakeholders in adopting best practices for native grain processing, ultimately contributing to the long-term prosperity of Australian rural industries.
This report has been produced as part of the AgriFutures Emerging Industries Program, which focuses on new and emerging industries with high growth potential. Emerging animal and plant industries play an important part in the Australian agricultural landscape. They contribute to the national economy and are key to meeting changing global food and fibre demands. Most of AgriFutures Australia’s publications are available for viewing, free download or purchase online at agrifutures.com.au.
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