Storing Peanuts in Trailer-Sized Containers1

Abstract

Abstract A containerized handling system is envisioned whereby peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L.) are placed in containers in the field and remain in these containers until they are shelled. This would reduce the foreign material, loose shelled kernels, and pod damage that result from handling as peanuts move through the buying point and into storage. Two naturally ventilated containers (half-trailer size) were stored in 1993. One container had a shed cover and the other an A-frame cover. In 1994 four containers were stored, two with shed covers and two with A-frame covers. One shed and one A-frame had a 1.7 m3/min fan that operated daily between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Top layer peanuts were at 12% moisture content at the beginning of storage in 1993 and ranged 10 to 11% moisture content after 16 wk. In 1994, the peanuts were over-dried and top layer peanuts entered storage at 6% moisture content. After 12 wk, moisture content was 7%. No mold growth or quality degradation was observed either year. The results indicated top layer peanuts absorb or desorb very little moisture when peanut moisture content is in the range of 6 to 12% at the beginning of storage. Containers were successful for storage at the ambient conditions in Tidewater, VA during 1993 and 1994.