Grain Farming Industry Overview

Excerpt from Grain Farming Report

Farms in this industry generate at least half of their revenue from growing field corn, wheat, or rice crops and seeds. No major companies dominate the industry.

Competitive Landscape

Demand is driven by government policies and consumer trends in eating grains, meat, and corn-based sweeteners, such as high-fructose corn syrup. The profitability of individual companies depends on maximizing crop yield and minimizing disease risk. Large companies have advantages in highly mechanized operations and access to the latest in genetically modified (GM) grains. Small operations can compete by specializing in organic or non-GM grains.

Products, Operations & Technology

Major products include field corn (about 80 percent of revenue), wheat (15 percent), and rice (less than 5 percent). Half of all field corn is used for livestock feed. Field corn is also used in industrial applications like biodegradable plastic; processed foods like breakfast cereal, salad dressing, margarine, soft drinks, and syrup; and ethanol fuel production.