2005 Year in Review

Illinois Farmers Advised to Exercise Proper Grain Storage Pr

Proper grain handling practices are essential to prevent storage losses from the spread of a toxin-producing fungus, the Illinois Department of Agriculture advised today.

Tests conducted by the department on corn samples from this year's harvest have detected the presence of aflatoxin, a potentially harmful by-product of a fungus (Aspergillus) that thrives in drought conditions. The levels generally are manageable, with less than one percent of the samples exceeding the federal limit that would prohibit use of the grain as animal feed. However, all grain was not tested.

"This fungus is associated with drought because its natural competitors --- bacteria and other fungi --- do not do well in a dry environment," Jim Larkin, bureau chief of Agricultural Products Inspection, said. "But, just like with other fungi, in warm, moist conditions aflatoxin can spread and contaminate an entire bin of grain."

To prevent contamination, Larkin recommends that stored grain be dried to a moisture content of no more than 13 percent. He also recommends screening grain before storage to remove cracked and shriveled kernels that are more susceptible to aflatoxin contamination, keeping grain storage temperatures cool and ventilating bins adequately to prevent moisture build-up.

The department has analyzed 675 corn samples from 91 of Illinois' 102 counties thus far. Forty-five, or 7 percent, tested above 20 parts per billion, the limit established by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for human consumption. Five exceeded 300 parts per billion, the level at which grain can no longer be used as feed for finishing cattle. Some of the samples, however, were submitted by producers because they were concerned about aflatoxin contamination, which may have resulted in a higher percentage of tests exceeding federal limits than strictly random testing would have revealed.

"We thought the conditions might be favorable for the growth of aflatoxin in some parts of the state," Jeff Adkisson, executive vice president of the Grain and Feed Association of Illinois, said. "As a result, the grain handling industry has been testing corn and is relieved to have found very few instances of the fungus. We've had to deal with aflatoxin before, though, and are prepared to deal with it again if need be."

The amount of aflatoxin that livestock can tolerate varies according to the species and its age. Farmers should consult their veterinarian or local Extension office before starting a feeding program. In addition, Larkin advises farmers to have their feed grain tested. They can ask either their supplier to check it or the Illinois Department of Agriculture's chemistry laboratory in Springfield. The lab, which charges a $25 fee for each sample tested, can be reached by calling (217) 785-8504.

by  Editor, theCity1.com
November 14, 2005