Fig 3-2 Relation between storage temperature/period and storage of hulled/unhulled rice3)
(7) Comparing the effects of storage of hulled and unhulled rice in normal- and low-temperature storage (Fig 3-2). storage of unhulled rice is superior to that of hulled rice in both types of storage. While the difference between the storage of hulled and unhulled rice became greater and the effects of unhulled rice storage became more noticeable with the elapse of storage time, the effects of low-temperature storage were even more prominent.
Considering the above results and storage conditions of other grains and seeds, it was determined in this study that long-term storage of rice would be possible if the following environmental requirements were satisfied:
* Temperature of rice grains; below 5℃
* Moisture content of rice grains: 13-15%
* Ambient humidity to maintain the moisture content of rice grains: 65%
Under these conditions, it would be possible to realize long-term storage that satisfies the requirements in 3-1 (1), and with little deterioration in quality or taste. It would also be possible to prevent damage by mice and other animals and insects and contamination by mold and other microbes.
In other words, use of post-harvest and other agricultural chemicals will be unnecessary and clean storage will be possible.
In this study, the temperature setting below 5℃ which has not been considered before, is referred to as "cold temperature."
3-3 Geographical conditions and location of a reserve base
(1) When planning a reserve base that will meet the above environmental conditions, necessary geographical conditions are as follows:
1) When considering construction and operating costs, location in a cold region with a climate suitable for cold storage is advantageous, if other conditions are the same.
2) Since a large site is necessary for construction of a reserve base, a region with good conditions for distribution, such as port facilities and transportation networks, is required.
3) Since food reserving is an intermediary industry between agriculture and food processing, a region with great potential in those industries is desirable.
4) Since examination of international demand, as well as of domestic demand, and reserves will be necessary, the reserve base must be located in a safe region free from international disputes.
(2) Considering the above locational conditions, Hokkaido was examined in this study as a potential location of a reserve base.
1) As for transportation between Hokkaido and the main island, Honshu, marine transportation accounts for about 90% of all freight transportation (trucks, railways, ships and airplanes).
2) As for port facilities, ferry or domestic container routes for shipping of reserved rice should be existing or planned. Also, sufficient quay depth for entry of large vessels is required.
Table 3-2 Ferry routes
Table 3-3 Ferry routes(freight)
Table 3-4 Changes of unit load for domestic trading
