Underground and earth sheltered food storage: historical, geographic, and economic considerations
Storage structures now used for bulk grain and beans have been derived from a combination of scientific experiments and tradition. Recent generations of US farmers have grown up with the understanding that grain is best stored in round metal bins or wooden cribs aboveground. It is generally thought that natural wind movements in the crib structures and forced air flow from aeration fans in metal bins will keep grain and beans safe, i.e., free of moisture accumulation and the resulting insect and fungal growth, and protected from germination, all of which deteriorate the commodity. North American farmers further believe that the low temperature of northern winters combined with careful use of aerating fans will keep the grain dry or beans safe (less than 14% moisture content) for years of storage. Traditional forms of grain and bean storage in other parts of the world have evolved differently. With the exception of North America, the people of every continent in the world have developed underground structures for long-term storage of food. A review of the varieties of underground structures that have evolved throughout the world, and research related to underground storage of grain and beans is presented.
- Research Organization:
- Univ. of Minnesota, St. Paul
- OSTI ID:
- 6853783
- Journal Information:
- Underground Space; (United States), Vol. 9:5-6
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Computers monitor conditions, operations at U. S. mines
FOODS FOR FALLOUT SHELTERS. II. FOOD STORAGE, PACKAGING, AND SURVEILLANCE