According to an Alltech press release, on average, 3.8 different mycotoxins were present in the TMR and DDGS samples collected.
The release stated the harvest analysis tested 45 TMR samples from across Canada, from June 1 to Nov. 30, at the company’s ISO-accredited Alltech 37+ mycotoxin analytical services laboratory in Nicholasville, Kentucky. The report showed that only 2 percent of the samples contained no mycotoxins. Two percent of the samples contained eight to nine mycotoxins; 20 percent contained six to seven mycotoxins; 29 percent contained four to five mycotoxins; 29 percent contained two to three mycotoxins; and 18 percent contained one mycotoxin. Type B trichothecene mycotoxins (including DON) were present in 80 percent of the samples, and fusaric acid was present in more than half.
Deoxynivalenol (DON) is a type B trichothecene mycotoxin and was the most prevalent mycotoxin found in new-crop corn silage as well as spring wheat, barley and triticale samples. High levels of fusaric acid were also present in the samples collected. The combination of DON and fusaric acid can result in a high risk equivalent factor (REQ) that can be toxic to animals. Producers should observe their herd and monitor their animals for poor feed intake as well as reduced milk or meat production.
“Mycotoxin issues aren’t limited to growing regions with contaminated crops,” said Dr. Max Hawkins, nutritionist for the Alltech mycotoxin management team, in the press release. “Mycotoxins move around quickly and spread contamination, so ensure that you sample your TMR and silage regularly and monitor your animals.”
In addition to these results, Progressive Dairyman asked Hawkins to respond to the three following questions:
What may have led to high levels of DON and fusaric acid?
HAWKINS: The fusarium molds that produce these mycotoxins prefer cool and wet weather particularly at flowering and prior to harvest.
What should producers continue to watch for as the 2016 crop is stored and fed out?
HAWKINS: Of course to monitor milk production, but diligently monitor DMI, body condition, gut health, rumen function, SCC and reproductive efficiency. As for the ingredients themselves, be on the watch for visible molds (by colour), pitch off spoiled forages and use good face management to minimize oxygen penetration.
What can producers do to prepare for next year?
HAWKINS: Remove or till under as much crop residue as possible as this harbours molds. Get the crop planted at the ideal date to ensure an adequate number of days without late season delay. If possible, don’t plant corn after corn. 
—Compiled by PD staff. Includes excerpts from an Alltech press release.
PHOTO: Samples of stored feed show high levels of mycotoxins from the 2016 harvest. Photo by Karen Lee.
