The Irish Grain Growers Group (IGGG) has called for an auditing system to be introduced to track all grain that is traded in Ireland.

The group has said that growers who are already signed up to the Irish Grain Assurance Scheme (IGAS), are fully traceable, and cross compliant.

It believes it is now time to ensure that grain sold is distinguished between imported and Irish.

“An auditing system that would clearly account for and distinguish between Irish and imported grain is essential for those in the food, brewing and distilling industry for whom full traceability is paramount.

“Indeed Guinness insist a contract be in place with growers to ensure a supply of Irish grain,” the IGGG has stated.

IGGG warns that Ireland is leaving itself exposed to damage to its image and premium markets both here and abroad by not stating the product's origin.

Irish grain is fully traceable at farm gate level and regularly audited within the farm, however the IGGG is calling for an auditing system to track all grain.

“Our premium markets that Irish agriculture depends on will insist on it into the future. It's time for Bord Bia and the Government to grasp the nettle before we get stung badly,” the group said.

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