ISSUE FOCUS 30 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE May 2023 Some questions that can help define the risk level and appropriate risk mitigation include: - What are the current storage conditions, including temperature, humidity, and aeration? - What are the moisture levels of the stored material and are they within the recommended range for the specific type of grain? - What is the microbial load in the grain bulk? - Are there visible signs of spoilage, such as mould growth, bad smell or discolouration in the grains? - How long will the grains be stored? The answers to these questions will help determine the most effective preservation strategies. Regardless of grain quality upon arrival, it is important that the storage area is clean and free from debris, dirt, insects or pests like rodents and birds. Assurance of clean conditions is of particular importance when storing grains after a contaminated load and it may be necessary to fumigate the area before loading new material. Intact grains stored in a cool, well-ventilated area will show the lowest risk of deterioration by microbes. When temperatures rise above 30°C, spoilage rates can increase. The best storage temperature for most grains is between 10°C and 15°C. Every time grains are handled, the risk of damage to the protective outer layer increases. Once the outer layer is cracked or broken, the grain's core is exposed, allowing for easier access by moulds and other microbes which will consume its nutrients, degrading the expected nutritional values. Despite precautions, it is inevitable that grains sometimes arrive with visible damage. To prevent further development of microbes already present, it may be necessary to transfer grains to another silo for treatment with organic acid blends. However, it is recommended that the movement of stored grain is minimized. Regular sampling and quality checks, as well as installing moisture and temperature sensors in the storage silos can help support grain quality efforts. Constant monitoring of grain quality is required to allow for timely actions should any issues arise. ORGANIC ACID PRESERVATION Organic acid application can help ensure that the nutritional value remains intact throughout grains’ shelf life. Fylax® Grain is Selko's most recent development in short-term grain preservation. This product functions as a cost-effective tool that helps grain storage facilities and feed processors reduce harmful microbes quickly and thoroughly. Even when grains are not stored for prolonged times at the feed mill, data shows that microbes can proliferate to harmful levels within 24-48 hours after storage. Particularly for flat storage or vertical storage silos with insufficient insulation, temperature fluctuations and condensation can cause moisture levels to increase, creating more favourable conditions for moulds, yeast and bacteria to develop. Fylax Grain is a potent blend of buffered and non-buffered organic acids and their salts and has been shown to effectively reduce moulds and Enterobacteriaceae in grain (figure 1). Effective microbial inhibition with Fylax Grain helps to preserve
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