Fusarium may produce mycotoxins such as vomitoxin. Affected wheat may be unpalatable or toxic to animals and is considered acceptable for human consumption only when virtually free of mycotoxins. They have a negative impact on end-use quality. Whole, reasonably sound kernels that, even though moderately bleached, show clear evidence of vitreousness, i.e., the natural translucent coloring which is an externally visible sign of hardness. Vitreous kernels of wheats of other classes that blend are included in the percentage of H.V.K. for grade determination.
Heated kernels have the color, taste or odour typical of grain that has heated in storage.
Tolerances for heated kernels include distinctly heated, binburnt, rotted, severely mildewed, and mouldy kernels. This description includes kernels with discoloration ranging from pale brown to very dark brown, but excludes blackened kernels. Samples containing more than 10 percent heated kernels by weight or having a distinctly heated odour are graded Wheat, Sample C.W., Canada, Account Heated. The discoloration may extend throughout the kernel and kernels may feel spongy under pressure. These kernels are characterized by a depression or caved-in side that is marked by a scarred pericarp.