"Australian Merino wool attracts a premium internationally compared to similar wool from other countries, partly because of this good reputation for cleanliness. "However, with exotic breeds becoming more popular in Australia, woolgrowers need to continue their vigilance and take measures to reduce the risk of contamination."
In addition, to minimise dark fibre contamination from traditional sources such as urine-stain and isolated pigmentation, high standards of both clip preparation and sheep selection against pigment are critical.
Australian Wool Industry Secretariat (AWIS) Executive Director Peter Morgan said at the recent International Wool Textile Organisation (IWTO) meeting in Italy, DMF contamination had been a topic of great interest to processors.
"There were a number of concerns expressed regarding DMF contamination and the need for ongoing vigilance. However there was recognition and support for the work being done in Australia," Dr Morgan said. AWI funded the development of the Dark and Medullated Fibre Risk (DMFR) Scheme, a voluntary vendor declaration which assesses the likelihood of contamination that was launched by the Federation of Australian Wool Organisations last year.
The declaration allows woolgrowers to declare a DMFR rating on their fleece and piece lines based on the wool type, age and sex of the sheep, their crutching history and contact with exotic breeds.
This DMFR rating of one to six is then reported on test certificates and in sale catalogues, where it allows buyers to choose lots which meet their particular end-use requirements. "The lower the risk the more likely it is the wool will be bought for high end value uses such as apparel," Dr Swan said.
"Although only launched 14 months ago, already around 30 per cent of eligible Australian Sale Lots are sold with DMFR ratings, and we are aiming to increase this to more than 60 per cent by 2008."
AWI is a research, development and innovation institute owned by Australian woolgrowers. The mission is to drive research, development and innovation that will increase the long-term profitability of Australian woolgrowers.
Australian Wool Innovation Limited
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