Where are Cereals stored and why?

Cereals are primarily stored in grain elevators or silos, which are tall, cylindrical structures specifically designed to store large quantities of grains and other bulk materials. These storage facilities serve several important purposes:

1. Protection from Weather: Grain elevators and silos provide shelter from harsh weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and excessive heat. Proper storage conditions are essential to maintain the quality and prevent spoilage of cereals.

2. Pest Control: Cereals are susceptible to infestation by pests like insects and rodents. Grain elevators and silos are designed to minimize the risk of pest infestation by employing various pest control measures, including fumigation, temperature control, and physical barriers.

3. Temperature and Humidity Control: Cereals are sensitive to temperature and humidity fluctuations, which can affect their quality and shelf life. Grain elevators and silos are equipped with temperature and humidity control systems to maintain optimal storage conditions for preserving the freshness and nutritional value of cereals.

4. Efficient Handling: Grain elevators and silos are designed to facilitate the efficient handling of cereals during loading, unloading, and transportation. They often utilize mechanized systems, such as conveyors and bucket elevators, to move the cereals quickly and minimize manual labor.

5. Bulk Storage Capacity: Cereals are typically harvested in large quantities during the growing season. Grain elevators and silos provide ample storage capacity to accommodate this influx of harvested cereals. They allow farmers and agricultural cooperatives to store their produce until it can be sold or further processed.

6. Strategic Reserves: Governments and agricultural organizations may maintain strategic reserves of cereals to ensure food security and manage supply shortages during times of crisis, natural disasters, or political instability. Grain elevators and silos play a crucial role in storing these reserves effectively.