Mycotoxin Summary Results
Larry Roth, Ph.D., PAS, Vice President of Nutrition
Mycotoxin evaluation is a key component of the Agrarian Mycotoxin Protection Program. The mycotoxin summary results for April 1 through September 30, 2023 are displayed in figures 1 and 2. These values reflect a combination of preserved 2022 feeds and newly harvested 2023 corn silage. For corn silage and dairy TMR samples, respectively. Mycotoxin assay results vary considerably across the United States. The past trend is for mycotoxin levels to increase as we move from the Plains States east to PA and NY, and there is not a clear pattern of 2022 vs 2023 values.
The states of OH, NY and PA reported elevated DON, zearalenone and fumonisin levels for an unfortunate trifecta. The IL fumonisin TMR levels were surprisingly high given the moderate levels of the corn silage, which suggests the feeding of contaminated by-products.
I encourage you to participate in the Agrarian mycotoxin testing program. We are emphasizing recording crop for the corn silage samples to identify year to year changes, as well as variability through the year. In addition, please consider the value of monthly monitoring of TMR and corn silage for mycotoxin variation. Proactive sampling may help to identify challenges before escalating. Contact your Agrarian representative for the latest on mycotoxin evaluation.
