After collecting, testing and analyzing nearly 200 samples from elevators in 11 states, U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) has released the official results from the 2026 quality survey for U.S. soft red winter (SRW) wheat. The report, issued annually since 1979, provides essential, objective information to help global wheat buyers purchase the wheat they need at the best value possible.
“The 2026 SRW Quality Survey provides useful data for millers, bakers and wheat food manufacturers,” said Mike Spier, USW president and chief executive officer. “The report reflects the commitment of U.S. farmers, grain handlers and our industry partners to provide reliable wheat supplies and the transparent quality information that our customers need to make confident purchasing decisions.”
SRW wheat is the third-largest class of wheat grown in the United States, cultivated primarily in the eastern third of the country. The USDA estimated that 5.54 million acres (2.24 million hectares) of SRW wheat were planted in fall 2025, down 9.2% from 2025 and 16.9% below the five-year average. The production region experienced dry fall planting conditions followed by frequent spring rainfall, which improved crop development but increased concerns about disease pressure and harvest delays.
For this 2026 report, Great Plains Analytical Laboratory in Kansas City, Missouri, collected, tested and analyzed 196 samples from elevators in 18 reporting areas from the East Coast and Gulf production states. Samples from 11 states represented 69% of total SRW production. The analysis includes grade, non-grade, flour and specific end-product data.
Despite climatic challenges and localized issues, the crop finished the season in good condition. Processors will find a versatile crop with good qualities for cookies and crackers. With higher protein and balanced dough properties, the crop should also be valuable in blending for baking applications.
Pockets of higher enzymatic activity (lower falling number values) may receive discounts or be directed to alternate uses depending on buyer requirements. Buyers with specific amylase requirements should consider specifying a minimum falling number in purchase contracts.
“Despite growing season challenges and localized quality issues, the 2026 U.S. SRW crop finished the season in good condition,” said Erica Oakley, USW vice president of programs, who oversees the data collection and report production. “Overall, buyers should find good quality in the 2026 SRW crop and are encouraged to review their specifications to ensure the wheat meets their needs, whether that is for traditional soft wheat products or blending with stronger wheat.”
The 2026 report was supported by funding from the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) export market development programs and USW’s state wheat commission members. USW will share additional detailed, regional reports for all six U.S. wheat classes and Desert Durum® as well as the overall 2026 U.S. Crop Quality Report this fall. Find all crop quality reports and related information at uswheat.org/cropquality.