Early corn silage harvest insights from Alltech analysis reveal surge in mycotoxin contamination.
November 8, 2024
Preliminary analysis of corn silage samples in the U.S. conducted by Alltech reveals a high increase in mycotoxin contamination compared to 2023, with all samples containing two or more mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are produced by certain species of molds and are a concern for livestock producers as they can influence feed quality and subsequent animal health and performance. The “Alltech 2024 U.S. Harvest Analysis,” released Nov. 7, uncovers the true threat mycotoxins pose to animals and producers.
Mycotoxins, which are natural substances produced by molds and fungi, are more prevalent – and more of a problem in agriculture – than ever before. More than 95% of crops today are contaminated with at least one mycotoxin and usually two or more, according to the Alltech news release. Because these toxins are difficult to detect, they can cause significant damage to animal health before producers even realize they are present. A proactive mycotoxin management program is essential, and the first step is learning which mycotoxins pose the highest risk in specific regions, crops and species.
The preliminary results of the 2024 analysis deliver early insight into the mycotoxin landscape. The “Alltech U.S. Harvest Analysis,” a decade-long initiative, is a comprehensive step in understanding the complexities of new-crop quality, mycotoxin prevalence and the threat mycotoxins pose to animals and producers. To determine the most accurate representation of mycotoxin risk across the U.S., samples are collected by Alltech representatives and sent to the company’s headquarters in Kentucky, where the Alltech 37+ laboratory can detect up to 54 individual mycotoxins.
“The weather pattern for 2024 is a prime driver for the change in corn silage mycotoxin risk. The precipitation over the Upper Midwest started early and, in many areas, delayed planting or caused replanting,” said Dr. Max Hawkins, technical support manager with Alltech’s mycotoxin management team. “This excess moisture is a stimulant for Fusarium mold growth, which can produce mycotoxins such as type B trichothecenes, emerging mycotoxins and zearalenone. Overall, the numbers of mycotoxins per sample are 8.3 for 2024 versus 5.3 for 2023. The risk equivalent quantity (REQ), or risk estimate, from all the mycotoxin present is 201.6, or higher risk, versus 122.7 for 2023.”
Alltech’s REQ is a system that measures the cumulative risk of multiple mycotoxins in feed to make it easier to evaluate contamination. It combines mycotoxin levels into a single value, helping producers manage feed safety and quality.
Weather and mycotoxin risk
The spike in contamination this year is largely attributed to significant rainfall across the Upper Midwest, which created favorable conditions for the growth of Fusarium molds, Alltech reported. These molds are responsible for producing various harmful mycotoxins, particularly type B trichothecenes, which pose the highest risk.
Key mycotoxins detected in 2024 corn silage include:
Type B trichothecenes – These mycotoxins have seen a sharp increase, with an average concentration of 1,863 parts per billion (ppb) and a staggering maximum level of 43,717 ppb. In comparison, 2023 averages were notably lower, at 1,014 ppb with a maximum of 29,853 ppb.
Zearalenone – Levels of zearalenone, known for its estrogenic effects in livestock, also rose significantly in 2024. The average concentration was 102 ppb, with a maximum of 2,134 ppb. In 2023, these values were much lower, at an average of 28 ppb and a maximum of 1,171 ppb.
Emerging mycotoxins – Samples to date have shown an average of 100 ppb, with a peak level of 4,300 ppb, up from 73 ppb and 987 ppb in 2023.
With corn harvest progressing well, Alltech said the number of samples arriving at the lab are increasing week on week. Early indications are similar to last year, with the risk increasing moving to the East, following the rainfall patterns. This risk is due primarily to Fusarium mycotoxins, type B trichothecenes, fumonisin and zearalenone. These toxins can have a significant impact on monogastric performance, reproduction and overall health.
More details on the corn grain samples will follow in the main report in the coming weeks, and Alltech also will host a live broadcast and a panel discussion on Nov. 21, “From Field to Feed: 2024 Crop & Mycotoxin Analysis,” to cover global weather impacts on crops, preliminary harvest results from key regions, trends in global trade and supply chains, practical tips for optimizing feed decisions. Registration and access to the full program are available at alltech.com/harvest-analysis.
Alltech offers a portfolio of products and services designed to improve the health and performance of animals and plants to achieve better nutrition and a decreased environmental impact. The company produces specialty ingredients, premix, supplements, feed and biologicals, along with a platform of services. It serves customers in more than 140 countries, has five bioscience centers and operates more than 75 manufacturing facilities across the globe.
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