Tuesday, November 14, 2023

Beware of mycotoxins in corn

There is a greater risk of mycotoxins in this year’s corn harvest and livestock and poultry farmers should be cautious about feeds, said the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs in its most recent Field Crop Report.

There are more mycotoxins in corn west of London, it said, although it has found worrisome levels of more than five points per million in all areas.


Three quarters of the 192 samples collected tested at two parts per million or less which is below the level of concern.


But even at that level the mycotoxins can have an adverse effect on pregnant sows.


What remains to be learned is how much mycotoxins in this year’s harvest will multiply in storage.


Mycotoxins thrived in the wet conditions this summer and fall and in some cases wildlife have damaged husks exposing kernels to increased risk of attack.


Deoxynivalenol (DON), also known as vomitoxin, is the most worrisome and prevalent mycotoxin. It develops from corn moulds.