By Dr. Michael Boland, content specialist, Ag Marketing Resource Center, Kansas State University.
Reviewed March 2005.
Overview
Mustard is an annual, cool-season economic cash crop that has a short growing season and is commonly grown in rotation with small grains.
There are three types of mustard: yellow, brown and oriental. In general, mustard seed is primarily used in the food or condiment industries in the form of either seed or oil. Yellow mustard is the mildest of the three and has lower oil content. It is most commonly used to produce “mild” prepared mustard for table use but is also used as a dry mustard for use as a seasoning in mayonnaise, salad dressings and sauces. The flour that is made from yellow mustard is also an excellent emulsifying agent and stabilizer for prepared meats. Brown and oriental are primarily used for “hot” table mustard and for oil and spices.
The major market for yellow mustard is the North American condiment industry. Europe is the major market for brown mustard for use as a condiment, often in the form of specialty mustards such as Dijon. Asia is the major market for oriental mustard for use as spicy cooking oil and condiments.
Mustard is native to temperate regions of Europe and has its historic base there. However, mustard supplies from western Europe were disrupted during World War II, and mustard began being produced as a specialty crop in North America.
Yellow mustard varieties usually mature in 80 to 85 days, while brown and oriental varieties typically require 90 to 95 days to mature. Mustard is best adapted to grow in fertile, well-drained, loamy soils.
Price per hundredweight for mustard seed has increased in the United States recently from $10.10/cwt. in 2000 to $16/cwt in 2003. During that same time, total acres of mustard harvested has increased from 43,200 acres to 107,000 acres (USDA Crop Production 2003 Summary).
Consumption of mustard has been steady, and any growth in the market for mustard has a direct relationship to population growth. However, it is still recommended that mustard be grown under contract to guarantee a market and a selling price for the producer.
Other Links
Links checked January 2008.