U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) has released the results of its 2026 soft red winter (SRW) wheat quality survey, finding that the crop finished the growing season in good condition despite weather challenges and localized quality issues.

The annual report, published since 1979, provides global wheat buyers with information to evaluate U.S. wheat quality and make purchasing decisions. The 2026 survey includes grade, non-grade, flour and end-product data from 196 samples collected at elevators across 11 states.

SRW wheat is the third-largest wheat class grown in the United States, primarily cultivated in the eastern third of the country. The USDA estimated that 5.54 million acres of SRW wheat were planted in fall 2025, down 9.2% from the previous year and 16.9% below the five-year average.

The production region experienced dry conditions during fall planting, followed by frequent spring rainfall. While the rainfall improved crop development, it also raised concerns about disease pressure and harvest delays.

Great Plains Analytical Laboratory in Kansas City, Missouri, collected, tested and analyzed samples from 18 reporting areas across East Coast and Gulf production states. The samples represented 69% of total U.S. SRW wheat production.

Despite growing season challenges, the 2026 crop offers good quality for cookies and crackers, according to USW. Higher protein levels and balanced dough properties also make the wheat suitable for blending in baking applications.

However, localized areas of higher enzymatic activity, indicated by lower falling number values, could result in discounts or alternative uses depending on buyer requirements. USW recommends that buyers with specific amylase requirements consider including a minimum falling number in their purchase contracts.

The organization also encourages buyers to review their purchasing specifications to ensure the wheat meets their needs, whether for traditional soft wheat products or blending with stronger wheat classes.

The 2026 survey was supported by funding from the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service's export market development programs and USW's state wheat commission members.

USW plans to release additional detailed regional reports for all six U.S. wheat classes and Desert Durum, along with its comprehensive 2026 U.S. Crop Quality Report, this fall.

The full reports are available at uswheat.org/cropquality.

Source: U.S. Wheat Associates, "2026 SRW Quality Survey Shows Good Overall Quality and Strong End-Use Value"